Stacks of clean aluminum sheet scrap at Reserve Alloys under a bright blue sky, representing high-quality non-ferrous metal recycling operations.

Nonferrous Metal Recycling

Photo of Aluminum scrap taken at Reserve Alloys in Twinsburg Ohio with sunny clear skies.

Full-Scale Nonferrous Scrap Recycling Services

A number of RMG businesses buy, process, and sell all grades of nonferrous scrap. RMG has developed operations with specialties in aluminum handling and processing, nonferrous recovery from mixed material streams, and recycling of hard-to-handle, low metal content items such as auto shredder residue (ASR). Regardless of your nonferrous recycling needs, RMG has a facility that can do the job. Interested in RMG’s nonferrous recycling services? Please visit the Contact Us page to get in touch. An RMG representative will reach out to discuss possible opportunities.

Auburn Metal

Napuck Salvage and Supply​

Napuck Salvage of Waupaca

Reserve Alloys

Reserve Marine Terminals

Resource Reclamation Toledo

Southside Recycling

South Shore Recycling

Windy City Iron & Metal

Group of adults riding bicycles through a park at sunset

Did you know?​

You can make a bicycle out of 650 recycled aluminum cans!

Bring your old bike and scrap metals to one of our retail locations and get paid for the metal value:

*(All locations accept nonferrous and ferrous metals, commercial and retail accounts)*

Pile of non-ferrous scrap metal including copper wire, brass teapot, and aluminum pieces at RMG recycling yard

What are Nonferrous Metals? ​

Nonferrous metals are those that do not contain iron or contain only very small amounts of iron. The most common nonferrous metals are aluminum, copper, zinc, lead, tin, alloys such as brass (copper and zinc), and precious metals like gold, silver, platinum, and palladium. Nonferrous metals are known for unique properties that can include high electrical and thermal conductivity, non-magnetism, corrosion resistance, and malleability. They are widely used in various industries such as electronics, construction, transportation, and jewelry. Compared to ferrous metals, nonferrous metals are generally more expensive but offer superior performance in specific applications where their unique characteristics are advantageous.

Nonferrous Metals — What Are They?

Nonferrous metals (like copper, aluminum, and brass) don't stick to magnets and resist corrosion. They're widely used in wiring, plumbing, and specialty manufacturing.

Non-Ferrous Metals

  • Aluminum
  • Copper
  • Brass
  • Bronze
  • Stainless Steel (non-magnetic)
  • Lead
  • Zinc
  • Nickel
  • Tin
  • Titanium

Where to Find Nonferrous Metals

  • Copper – wiring, pipes, motors
  • Aluminum – siding, rims, cans
  • Brass – keys, fixtures, plumbing
  • Bronze – sculptures, medals
  • Lead – batteries, roofing
  • Stainless Steel – sinks, appliances
  • Zinc – roofing, die-cast parts
  • Nickel & Titanium – aerospace, electronics

Trying to Locate Scrap Metals?
Check out our Scrap Locator!

Looking to boost your scrap metal earnings? Our new tool helps you identify valuable metals, understand what they are, and learn where to find them. Whether it’s copper from wiring, aluminum from window frames, or steel from appliances, this glossary-style guide gives you the knowledge you need to spot and sort scrap like a pro.
Please note: This is an educational tool designed to help you recognize ferrous and nonferrous metals and make smarter decisions with every load.

gET IN touch

We would love to speak with you.