Menu
blogdetail
Oct 26

Everything You Need to Know About Brass Scrap

Scrap yards love it when brass comes through their doors, and for good reason: this durable, versatile alloy is in high demand across various industries. In fact, brass is one of the most valuable non-ferrous metals in the recycling world.

If you’re thinking about gathering brass scrap to cash in, know that recycling brass isn’t as simple as showing up with a box full of the yellowish metal. There are some things you need to understand to get the most out of your brass.

In this brief article brought to you by the scrap metal recycling professionals at Just Scrap It, we explore everything from identifying brass correctly to understanding what affects its value at the scrap yard.

What is brass and why is it valuable?

Brass is an alloy made primarily of copper and zinc, but, depending on the intended use, it can contain other metals like lead or tin. Its unique combination of durability, corrosion resistance, and malleability makes it ideal for a range of products from plumbing fixtures and electrical components to musical instruments and decorative items.

To be clear, it is the high copper content in brass that makes it especially valuable. Since copper is a sought-after metal, brass usually fetches a good price at scrap yards. However, not all brass is created equal. Understanding the differences between types can help you maximize your earnings.

Identifying brass in your scrap pile

If you’ve been collecting scrap metal, you’ve probably noticed that different metals can look similar. Brass, for instance, can sometimes be mistaken for copper or bronze. Here are a few tips to make sure you’re identifying brass correctly:

  • Color: Brass has a distinctive yellowish-gold color, but it can also take on a duller, brownish hue if it’s older or has been exposed to the elements.
  • Weight: Brass is a heavy metal. If you have two pieces of similar size and one feels noticeably heavier, it might be brass.
  • Magnet Test: If a magnet sticks to the metal, it’s likely not brass.
  • Scratch Test: Scratch the surface of the metal lightly with a file or knife. Brass will reveal a yellow or golden color beneath the surface while metals like copper will appear reddish.

Types of brass you may encounter

Not all brass is the same, and different types of brass can impact your return. Here are some common varieties of brass scrap that you might find:

  • Yellow Brass: The most common type of brass used in household items like plumbing fixtures, doorknobs, and keys.
  • Red Brass: This type contains more copper than yellow brass, giving it a reddish hue.
  • Cartridge Brass: Used in the production of ammunition casings, cartridge brass is a mixture of around 70% copper and 30% zinc.

Preparing your brass for sale

Getting the most out of your brass scrap means preparing it before you show up to the scrap metal buyer. Begin by separating out any steel screws, plastic parts, or rubber components. Not only does this make it easier for the scrap yard, but you’ll also get a better price for clean brass.

If you have different types of brass, keep them separate. For example, place red brass in one box and yellow brass in another. With everything separated, you should weigh your brass. While scrap yards will weigh it themselves, having your own ballpark number can help ensure you’re getting an accurate payout.

Now that you’re ready, call Just Scrap It to learn what we’ll pay for your scrap metal. If you’ve got a big batch, we’re happy to come by and pick it up locally!

What Our Clients Say

font
Juan Martinez
Kissimmee, FL

The people were nice and I was able to sell my scrap metal quickly.

font
Mercedes Porsche
Zephyrhills, FL

Whenever I have metal to get rid of, this is the place to bring it. They are fast and friendly.

font
Walley Tice
Seffner, FL

I'm thankful for Scrap It. They are great to work with. Friendly and helpful. Thanks

font
Landon Bradley
Tampa, FL

Great service. Very friendly. Highly recommended this scrap yard. Ur very welcome and thanks again.