Stainless steel is a very popular material because it offers good corrosion resistance, and the silvery hue of the metal is also eye-catching. This metal is used for a great many applications, and it is considered one of the most sustainable metals because it is recyclable.

Stainless steel contributes a lot to the circulatory recycling economy. Let’s take a look at how this system works and how it benefits us all. 

Where Stainless Steel Originally Came From

As with all metal types, stainless steel is mined from the earth’s crust. This type of metal is made of iron and chrome. Iron is a product extracted from iron ore deposits, while chromium is extracted from chromite ore. Stainless steel can also contain other metals like nickel, molybdenum, manganese, and others. 

Because stainless steel consists of so many different metals, the steel can greatly vary in its qualities and grade. Higher grade stainless steel tends to contain more chromium and is more rust resistant, while lower grade stainless steel has a higher percentage of iron. 

The Circular Recycling Process of Stainless Steel

Stainless steel has a perfect circular recycling economy because it can be recycled over and over again without affecting the quality of the metal in any way. The metal is 100% recyclable no matter how many times it has been processed, and it can be recycled over and over again countless times because the recycling processes don’t degrade the quality of the metal in any way.

The process of the circular recycling economy of stainless steel is also straightforward and looks like this.

• Metal Collecting

First, the metal is collected from various sources and taken to scrap metal companies where the metal is identified and piled together.

• Sorting

Metal is then sorted based on its grade and type. Stainless steel has many grade categories and needs to be carefully sorted so it can be properly processed during the next step. The steel is sorted by metal composition and quality.

• Processing

During this process, the metal is smelted down and undergoes several processes to remove contaminants. This process involves shearing hte metal, cutting it into smaller pieces, and balling it. 

• Production of Raw Stainless

After processing and cleaning, the metal is formulated into new raw stainless steel blocks or sheets. These metals are then sold to manufacturing industries.

• Manufacturing

Manufacturing industries purchase recycled stainless steel and use it to produce new items. The recycled steel can be used to create an infinite amount of items, including homeware goods, tools, vehicle parts, and so much more.

• Distribution

The manufactured goods are then distributed to different markets and sold to companies or the general public.

• Use 

Stainless steel products can be used for many years because they are rust-resistant. These products can continue being useful for several decades or even centuries before they are finally discarded. 

How The Circular Recycling of Steel Benefits the Economy

Recycling stainless steel can benefit various economies or industries. This includes those that collect stainless steel, industries that process the steel by purifying it, industries that produce new raw steel materials, those that produce and manufacture goods, and those that distribute these products to the general public. 

With so many different processes, there are countless opportunities to create jobs, make money, and develop a flourishing economy. 

Sell Stainless Steel in Melbourne

There is no doubt that stainless steel is a very important metal when it comes to developing our economy and supporting our communities. Just about anyone can benefit from stainless steel in one way or another. If you want to be part of this circular recycling economy or want to make money from this industry, then we invite you to start collecting scrap metal. At Danny Scrap Metal, we are happy to buy any stainless metals you might find, and we offer the highest payout rates for old metal. 

Call Danny Scrap Metal to find out more about our current rates for stainless or to schedule a pickup for your large pile of scrap metal.