how can i test different scrap metals to find out what type they are?
rgp53 asked:
i want to sell my scrap metal to a scrap yard. i am not sure if it is aliminum or cast metal of a different type. is there a test to determine the differnt types of metals? i know you can use a magnet to determine if ferrous or non-ferrous
Back Yard Metal Casting
i want to sell my scrap metal to a scrap yard. i am not sure if it is aliminum or cast metal of a different type. is there a test to determine the differnt types of metals? i know you can use a magnet to determine if ferrous or non-ferrous
Back Yard Metal Casting


They can tell by looking at it after doing it for years its second nature just bundle it all in different types they will tell you where to go and sort any pieces you may have mixed.
Scrap metal yards can tell and will test it right there. The old timers can tell just about by looking at it. They use a couple of methods, spark, test, acid test, magnet test, etc. It is their business to know. Ask them to show you how to test it, most will show you.
take a small piece of metal and weigh it on a balance and record it then drop it in a graduated beaker of water and get its volume then divide mass by volume and get density then just look up the density online or in a reference book. i found some densities in ten seconds online with one click. there are bound to be even more than this one.
most scrap yards can test for you at the yard.
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