Knowing Different Grades of Aluminum Scrap
Aluminum is one of the most widely recycled metals in the world — and for good reason. It’s lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and retains its properties no matter how many times it’s recycled. Whether you’re in the scrap metal business or simply want to make smarter choices when recycling, understanding the different grades of aluminum scrap can help you maximise your returns and reduce environmental impact.
In this guide, we’ll break down the most common aluminum scrap grades, how to identify them, and why they matter.
Why Aluminum Grades Matter
Not all aluminum scrap is created equal. Different grades are categorised based on their purity, composition, and previous use. These differences affect the metal’s resale value, recyclability, and the type of reprocessing it requires.
Recycling centers and scrap yards often pay different rates for different grades, so knowing what you’re holding can mean more cash in your pocket.
Common Grades of Aluminum Scrap
1. Clean Aluminum (Aluminum Solids)
- Description: Pure aluminum items without any attachments like screws, paint, or plastic.
- Examples: Clean aluminum sheets, unpainted siding, extrusions, and rods.
- Value: High — this is one of the most valuable grades because it requires minimal processing.
2. Dirty Aluminum
- Description: Aluminum mixed with other materials such as steel, plastic, or rubber.
- Examples: Window frames with screws still attached, painted or coated aluminum, appliances.
- Value: Lower — these items require more labor to separate and clean.
3. Aluminum Cans (UBC – Used Beverage Cans)
- Description: Recyclable soda and beer cans made from thin aluminum.
- Examples: Beverage cans.
- Value: Moderate — widely accepted and easily processed, though aluminium scrap prices fluctuate with market demand.
4. Aluminum Extrusions
- Description: Aluminum pushed through a mold to create specific shapes.
- Examples: Window frames, door frames, and structural pieces.
- Types:
- Clean Extrusions: No paint or foreign materials.
- Painted Extrusions: Coated with paint or other finishes.
- Value: Clean extrusions fetch higher prices than painted ones.
5. Aluminum Turnings or Shavings
- Description: Fine scrap material generated during the machining or milling of aluminum.
- Examples: Waste from manufacturing plants or machine shops.
- Value: Lower — due to contamination with oils or other substances.
6. Cast Aluminum
- Description: Aluminum that has been melted and poured into a mold.
- Examples: Engine blocks, cookware, transmission cases.
- Value: Moderate — cast aluminum often includes impurities and may require extra refining.
7. Sheet Aluminum
- Description: Thin, flat pieces of aluminum used in siding, roofing, and packaging.
- Examples: Siding panels, license plates, curtain rods.
- Value: Mid-range — usually contains some paint or attachments.
Tips for Sorting and Maximising Scrap Value
- Clean Your Scrap – Remove steel screws, plastic, or rubber to boost your aluminum grade.
- Separate by Type – Keep cans, extrusions, cast aluminum, and turnings in separate bins.
- Avoid Mixing Metals – Aluminum mixed with steel or copper may be downgraded or rejected.
- Use a Magnet – Aluminum is non-magnetic, so this is a quick way to separate it from steel.
Conclusion
Knowing the different grades of aluminum scrap is key to getting the most out of your recycling efforts. Whether you’re a scrapper, contractor, or environmentally conscious homeowner, understanding what you have — and how to sort it — can increase your returns and reduce waste.
So next time you’re hauling a load to the yard, take a few extra minutes to sort and clean your aluminum. Your wallet (and the planet) will thank you.
Have aluminum scrap to sell or recycle? Make sure to check with your local scrap yard for current prices and specific grading guidelines — or simply search for scrap metal near me to find the best local options.