The nonferrous scrap processor purchases the scrap and begins a complicated
procedure requiring the identification of the metals, sorting by grade
and processing to meet rigid international specifications. The scrap
processor must possess a thorough knowledge of metals to begin the
identification process because several different metals, as well as
alloys, could make up a single piece of scrap. Even after long years
of experience and extensive training, the processor may have to rely
on testing, including the application of acid or other chemicals,
to ascertain the exact composition of the scrap. Occasionally, processors
may even have to resort to more precise laboratory analysis and identification.
Once the processor
has identified the scrap components, it is sorted into grades of
metal. This is a very important step because the end consumer will
require that the scrap be segregated according to rigid specifications
before it can be melted into new metal products. The processor prepares
the scrap using a variety of methods including shearing, cutting,
chopping, baling, granulating or shredding. Depending on the kind
of scrap and the requirements of the customer who will be using
it, the scrap might be packed or placed loose in shipping containers
for export markets or packed in drums, on pallets or various other
containers.
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