Metals are an important material for manufacturing many items used to construct everyday objects on various scales. Like many industries, the electrical sector uses significant amounts to carry out its work. They use it within the equipment and tools they use as well as within applications to power homes and appliances found in any home.
Whether on an industrial or domestic level, having the correct metal is possibly more vital within the electrical industry than any other sector. The metal must have suitable properties for use and even for aesthetics. A handful of metals are commonly found within the application of electronics and electrical works, each having a well-designed purpose due to its properties. We will cover all the metals put to use and why it is essential to ensure the correct disposal with scrap metal recycling.
Stainless Steel
There is a significant requirement for stainless steel. Although its properties don’t place it the highest conductor of electricity, it has many uses in the products manufactured for electrical applications. Due to its strength, it offers an asset in creating fuse boards, light fittings and backboxes. It is also easy to clean and, using the correct grade, can offer sleek and contemporary finishes for light switches and plug sockets. It is also corrosion resistant, making it durable under natural elements.
Copper
Possibly the most used metal within the electrical industry is copper. Due to its high conductivity properties and malleable ability, it makes the ideal material for wiring. The electrical industry is responsible for 65% of the global uses of copper, making it a high commodity.
Not only is it used for wiring within a domestic home, but it is also used within microchips, circuit boards and LAN lines to provide internet connections from providers. Most wiring manufactured is produced using copper aside from overhead powerlines, which we will cover later.
Tool Steel
Much like many construction and trade industries, tool steel is a well-used component in the electrical industry with all the machinery and equipment required for applications, transporting and machinery. Its strength and resistance to abrasion and deformation allow electricians to have confidence in their tools. Tool steel can be found in saws, chisels, pliers and wire cutters, and even among the metal used to construct forklift trucks and other large machinery.
Brass
Used within batteries, terminals and connectors, the resistance to rust makes this the best metal for electrical applications. Brass is highly conductive and, even under extreme pressure, is resistant to corrosion. These properties make it perfect for electrical work underground or applications exposed to natural elements. It is also used for aesthetic purposes within home electrical components such as light fittings and sockets.
Aluminium
Although not found in domestic homes, aluminium has a prominent use for electronics in the applications of overhead power lines. With alloy reinforcement, they offer an ideal solution to providing homes with power without corroding under extreme elements. Aluminium is also a less valuable metal, which makes it less appealing to thieves and a safer option for electrical engineers.
The Importance of Metal Recycling In the Electrical Industry
Many of the metals used within the electrical industry are essential to future technologies and developments. Without these metals, new houses cannot be wired, and technical components cannot be developed. Our scrap metal solutions for commercial scrap metal can ensure that any waste from the electrical industry can be recycled and offer a new generation of use for electrical industries.
Mining for new material takes a lot of non-renewable energy and depletes the earth of precious materials. In addition, it adds to greenhouse gases and negatively impacts the environment. Whereas recycled metals offer less damage and lower the carbon footprint of all services involved. For example, recycled steel takes up to 75% less energy to manufacture than mining for raw material. This is why using a responsible scrap metal recycling facility such as Morecambe Metals can help reduce the need for new materials.
The Benefits of Recycling Metal In the Electrical Industry
Whether you are an electrical wholesaler, electrical contractor or electrical engineer, there could be an array of leftover material or equipment lying around, taking up valuable space. Using our commercial metal recycling services, you can free up space and keep your warehouse looking tidy and accessible.
Our skips offer the same-day collection to prevent the worry of theft overnight from your property, and we offer competitive prices for all scrap metal. Our service can provide you with money for your wasted scrap metal, and you will be assisting in lowing the industry’s carbon footprint in the process.
We offer a range of services to assist the electrical industry regarding scrap metal, including our skips for hire and commercial scrap metal waste collection. You can enquire about our services online or call us directly on 0152469191.