Recycling Beyond Copper and Aluminum: Other Valuable Metals You Can Sell at a Scrap Yard in Kansas City
In the world of scrap metal recycling in Kansas City, copper and aluminum often steal the spotlight. However, many other metals hold significant value and can bring you a solid return at a scrap yard in Kansas City.
If you're looking to maximize your profits and make the most of your recycling efforts, it's helpful to understand the potential of additional metals like brass, steel, lead and even specialty metals such as titanium and tungsten. Learning more about these materials can help you pinpoint more scrap recycling options, and ensure you get the maximum value while also supporting sustainable recycling practices.
Exploring More Valuable Metals for Recycling
Brass: A High-Value Metal
Brass is a highly sought-after metal in the scrap metal recycling industry. It is commonly found in plumbing fixtures, radiators, bullet casings and decorative household items. Since brass is an alloy of copper and zinc, its scrap value tends to be higher than many other metals.
Where to Find Brass:
- Old plumbing pipes and fittings
- Door handles and locks
- Electrical components and valves
- Musical instruments (like trumpets and trombones)
- Antique furniture and fixtures
Steel: The Most Recycled Metal
Steel is one of the most widely recycled materials in the world. It is found in everything from old appliances and construction debris to auto parts and furniture. Although steel has a lower price per pound compared to copper or brass, its sheer abundance makes it a profitable material to collect and sell to a Kansas City scrap yard.
Where to Find Steel:
- Cars and vehicle frames
- Household appliances (refrigerators, washing machines, etc.)
- Industrial equipment and construction materials
- Structural beams and support columns
- Reinforced concrete materials from demolition sites
Lead: Valuable but Hazardous
Lead is a dense and valuable metal commonly found in car batteries, weights and old pipes. Because of its toxicity, keep your safety in mind when handling and recycling it.
Where to Find Lead:
- Lead-acid batteries (car and marine batteries)
- Roofing materials and pipes
- Fishing sinkers and diving weights
- Radiation shielding in medical and industrial settings
- Ammunition and firearm projectiles
Recycling Tip: Wear gloves and a mask when handling products with lead to avoid contamination. Most scrap yards, including Scrap Management Industries d/b/a Midwest Scrap Management, have procedures for safely recycling lead.
Titanium: A Lightweight Powerhouse
Titanium is a strong and lightweight metal commonly used in aerospace, medical implants and high-performance sports equipment. While titanium is not as common as steel or brass, it holds a high value due to its unique properties.
Where to Find Titanium:
- Aircraft parts
- Medical implants (hip replacements, dental implants)
- High-performance bicycle frames and golf clubs
- Military and aerospace applications
- Jewelry and watches
Tungsten: The Hardest Metal
Tungsten is a dense metal often used in industrial and military applications. It is valued for its hardness and resistance to high temperatures.
Where to Find Tungsten:
- Cutting tools and drill bits
- Electrical contacts and filaments in light bulbs
- Aerospace and defense components
- Weights and counterbalances in precision equipment
- High-performance sporting goods like darts and golf club inserts
Challenges of Collecting and Recycling Lesser-Known Metals
Even though metals like brass, steel, lead, titanium and tungsten bring great recycling opportunities, there are a few challenges to keep in mind:
- Market Fluctuations – Prices for lesser-known metals can vary significantly based on demand and availability.
- Safety Concerns – Handling metals like lead requires proper precautions to prevent health risks.
- Limited Recycling Facilities – Some specialty metals require specific recycling processes that not all scrap yards in Kansas City can accommodate.
- Transportation and Storage – Larger items like steel beams and vehicle frames may require special transportation and storage considerations before being sold. In these cases, Scrap Management Industries d/b/a Midwest Scrap Management works with commercial customers offering industrial scrap management, such as roll-off containers, trailers, flatbeds, onsite baling and car logging, onsite shearing, demolition and brokerage services.
Maximizing Your Scrap Metal Profits
To get the best returns for your scrap metal, follow these key tips:
- Check Scrap Metal Prices in Kansas City – Staying updated on market prices helps you time your sales for maximum profit.
- Find a Reliable Scrap Yard in Kansas City – Choose a trusted facility like Scrap Management Industries for competitive pricing and responsible recycling practices.
- Store Your Scrap Properly – Keeping scrap dry and free from corrosion can help maintain its value.
- Stay Informed on Regulations – Some metals, like lead and certain electronic components, may have disposal restrictions or require special handling
Recycle with Confidence in Kansas City
Scrap metal recycling goes beyond just copper and aluminum. By looking at the potential of brass, steel, lead, titanium, tungsten and other valuable materials, you can turn scrap into cash while promoting sustainability. Understanding the best practices for handling and selling scrap metals can maximize your profits and contribute to environmental conservation.
If you're ready to sell your scrap, visit Scrap Management Industries at our Kansas City location: Scrap Yard Kansas City.