Aluminum Scrap Pans: Worth A Fortune?

Aluminium scrap prices vary depending on the type of aluminium and its condition. For example, aluminium pans are considered sheet aluminium or light aluminium, which is sturdier than the aluminium used in cans. Most scrap yards that accept metal will recycle old aluminium pans along with other scrap metal.

Scrapping aluminium pans for cash

Aluminium pans are a common household item that can be scrapped for cash. Aluminium is a nonferrous metal, meaning it will not stick to a magnet. It is usually a light and silver-coloured metal. If you have aluminium scrap lying around your house, you can collect it and bring it to a scrapyard near you.

Most curbside recycling programs do not accept scrap metal, so you will likely need to take your aluminium pans to a scrapyard. You can use the iScrap App to find your nearest scrapyard and check today's scrap prices.

Before taking your aluminium pans to a scrapyard, ensure they are clean and free from any iron, plastic, glass, or other attachments. The pans will be put with what is called "Sheet Aluminium" or "light aluminium", which is sturdier than the aluminium used in cans.

If your aluminium pans have a non-stick coating, such as Teflon, your recycling options may be limited. In this case, you will need to call the scrapyard beforehand to ask if they accept Teflon-coated pans.

If you have a large quantity of aluminium scrap, you can use the iScrap App to request a container pickup service. This service can be useful if you have aluminium scrap from a demolition job or construction site.

Recycling aluminium pans

Reuse:

If your aluminium pans are still in good condition, consider reusing them. You can donate them to charity or pass them on to someone who might find them useful. Platforms like Olio, Freecycle, Craigslist, or Gumtree are great options for finding new owners for your cookware. Alternatively, you can donate them to second-hand stores like Goodwill or the Salvation Army.

Check with Local Recyclers:

If your pans are beyond reuse, the next step is to recycle them. Aluminium pans cannot be recycled from home through your regular curbside recycling program. You will need to take them to your local household waste recycling centre or a scrap metal recycler. Before you go, check with the recycler to ensure they accept aluminium items. Some recyclers only deal with specific types of metal, so it's important to confirm beforehand.

Separate Different Materials:

If your aluminium pans have non-metal components, such as plastic or rubber, you may need to separate these materials before recycling. Scrap yards usually separate aluminium pans into the proper pile of aluminium scrap. In the case of aluminium, they are often put with "Sheet Aluminium" or "light aluminium," which is sturdier than the aluminium used in cans.

Find a Scrap Yard:

If you have a large quantity of aluminium pans or other scrap metals, you can use an app like iScrap to find a scrap yard near you. The app also provides information on scrap metal prices, which can vary daily and are subject to change without notice. You can contact the scrap yard directly to get a custom quote for your aluminium pans.

How to identify aluminium

Aluminium is a light and silver-coloured metal that does not stick to magnets. It is also non-ferrous, which means it does not contain iron. It is used in a variety of items, from gutters and siding to household items like pots, pans, and soda cans. While aluminium does not rust, it will tarnish over the years. It is also used in cast and sheet aluminium items, such as machine equipment and engines.

• Visual Inspection: Aluminium has a dull look, with a silvery colour. However, it can also be made to be very shiny, depending on the grade and finishing processes used.
• Magnet Test: Bring a magnet close to the metal you want to test. If it's aluminium, the magnet will not stick to it.
• Weight Comparison: Compare the weight of aluminium with another metal of the same volume. Aluminium is less dense and will be lighter than steel, for example.
• Scratch Test: Rub or scratch aluminium against another metal. Aluminium is softer and will leave a deeper mark. However, this may not work with very high-grade aluminium alloys that have a high Brinell hardness.
• Filing: Take a needle file and try to file away at the metal. Aluminium is softer and will be easier to remove than harder metals like stainless steel.
• Density Calculation: Measure the weight and volume of the metal and then calculate its density. Aluminium has a density of around 2.7 g/ml. This method may be more challenging with irregularly shaped scrap metal.
• Archimedes' Principle: Submerge the metal in water and measure the weight and upthrust. By calculating the difference in weight, you can determine the volume and, consequently, the density. This method provides an accurate way to measure density, even for irregularly shaped objects.

Non-stick aluminium pans

However, it is important to note that non-stick coatings can deteriorate over time with use and proper care is needed to prolong their lifespan. For example, it is recommended to hand-wash non-stick pans instead of putting them in the dishwasher, and to avoid using metal utensils that can scratch the coating. Additionally, non-stick pans should not be overheated as this can cause the coating to detach and release fumes that may be toxic.

Despite the need for careful use and maintenance, non-stick aluminium pans offer a convenient and healthy cooking option. They enable quick and easy cooking with minimal oil, making them a popular choice for many home cooks.

Where to scrap aluminium pans

Aluminium scrap can be sold to scrap yards, which will recycle the metal. Most scrap yards that accept metal will take aluminium pans.

Before selling your aluminium scrap, it is important to check for any non-metal parts such as plastic or rubber handles, which may need to be removed. Some scrap yards will accept aluminium with non-metal parts, but they will pay less for it.

To find a scrap yard near you, you can use the iScrap App, which will also show you today's scrap prices.

Frequently asked questions