What is Ferrous Metal?

Ferrous simply means iron, which means that ferritic metals contain nominal traces of iron. Common examples of ferrous metal include steel, stainless steel (unless it is a high-caliber stainless steel heavily galvanized with nickel), carbon steel, and tin. Nonferrous metals, like aluminum, brass, and copper, do not contain iron.

So, how do you know if something made of metal contains ferritic properties? Try these two fast and easy tests to make your confirmation.

► Magnet Test

Ferrous metals are attracted to magnets. Your refrigerator is donned with a cluster of magnets because it contains iron metal. So, the next time you need to test metal to tell if it is ferrous or nonferrous, simply grab one of your refrigerator magnets and see if it sticks. If the magnet drops off instantly, the object does not contain iron and therefore, is not ferrous, or nonferrous.

► Rust Observation Test

Another test that might be even quicker than the first is the rust observation test. You see, ferrous metal does not rust, which is caused by a process known as oxidation. When the properties of nonferrous metal are exposed to oxygen, rust will begin to form. If you examine your object for rust and find none, you are likely dealing with a ferrous metal. But to be sure, try the magnet test too.

Using X-Ray Metal Analyzers

For some metal objects and commodities, deciphering the metal composition in detail is not so cut and dry. Metal analyzing equipment and technologies, such as XRF analyzers, are used to precisely confirm the metal constituents within an object.

Are you ready to sell your ferrous and nonferrous metals for cash on the spot? Contact Garden City Iron & Metal at 1-888-586-5322 to speak with a professional scrap metal buyer in Indianapolis, Indiana. We accept all metals.

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Garden City Iron and Metal 1-888-586-5322

Whether you own a construction company or teach a metal fabrication class, having a surplus of leftover steel from a recent project can benefit you greatly in many ways. Continue reading to learn what you can do with surplus steel, including one way that will make you an instant cash profit right here in central Indiana.

Steel Recycling Center Indianapolis IN 1-888-586-5322

The Advantages of Scrap Steel

One the best attributes of scrap steel is that it is 100% recyclable and can be repurposed into a countless number of commodities applicable in a wide range of industries. From construction and farming to automotive manufacturing, food canning, and much more, steel plays a vital role in our nation’s economy, as well as the global economy.

So, when you have leftover steel that seems to serve no purpose, look to these ideas to make the most out of your scrap metal:

Artwork

Do you have an artist in the family? Scrap metal, especially steel piping and sheet metal, can be used to create magnificent art projects and artworks. From sculptures and statues to abstract figures and more, steel makes the perfect material for molding and welding art of all forms.

Structural Repairs

If you consider yourself a pretty capable handyman, you can use your left over scrap steel to provide certain reinforcements and repairs around your home or business. You can use scrap steel to build handrails and banisters, or to reinforce patios and decking.

Shed Construction

If you are preparing to build a new shed or storage utility barn on your property, your leftover steel scrap can be put to good use. Talk to your general contractor about incorporating your left over scrap in order to reduce the cost of materials.

Steel Recycling

The best thing you could possibly do with your surplus steel is to sell it to a local metal recycling center for cash on the spot. Not all metal recycling centers in Indiana pay cash on the spot, or at all for that matter, so it’s important for you to do your research. Supporting steel recycling is an important initiative that can make you feel good and fatten up your wallet!

Are you looking for a trusted Indiana metal recycling company that will pay you top dollar for your steel? Contact Garden City Iron & Metal at 1-888-586-5322 to speak with a professional scrap metal buyer in Indianapolis, Indiana. We accept all scrap metal and metal commodities, including scrap steel and construction scrap.

Garden City Iron & Metal

Monthly Archives: October 2021

Top 2 Ways to Confirm Ferrous Metal

What is Ferrous Metal?

► Magnet Test

► Rust Observation Test

Using X-Ray Metal Analyzers

What You Can Do With Surplus Steel

The Advantages of Scrap Steel

Artwork

Structural Repairs

Shed Construction

Steel Recycling