Author: Jason Woodruff

Scrap Metal Recycling: How We Save the Environment and Your Money

Posted on by Jason Woodruff

Did you know that steel is one of the most recycled raw materials in the entire world and that the United States is leading the way in the recycled metal industry? The U.S. exports recycled ferrous metal (iron, steel, or any metal containing iron) to over 90 countries across the globe. In 2012 alone, the country processed over 75 million metric tons of ferrous scrap metal. That is almost enough metal to build over 25 replicas of the Eiffel Tower every single day. Scrap Yard

How Recycling Scrap Metal Helps the Environment

You probably already know that recycling helps the environment, but you might not know just how much. Steel and iron can be recycled over and over again, which means less manufacturing is needed. Studies have shown that this reduces the emission of carbon dioxide by about 58 percent due to the decrease in new production. The recycling process also uses less energy than the manufacturing process – up to 60 percent to be exact. It even helps the U.S. cut back on coal and iron ore mining.

How Recycling Scrap Metal Saves You Money

Because ferrous scrap metal can be recycled multiple times, it prevents you and your company from spending tons of cash on manufacturing new metal. Almost any type of ferrous metal can be recycled. If you have old cars, appliances, steel buildings, farm equipment, or anything else lying around, they can all be recycled to help make new products.

Recycling Non-Ferrous Scrap Metal

Of course, non-ferrous metals (metal that does not contain iron) can also be recycled. These include brass, copper, zinc, pewter, tin, aluminum, magnesium, lead, gold, silver, platinum, and nickel. Just like iron and steel, recycling these metals helps contribute to a healthier environment and helps you cut costs when doing business. If you are in need of quality recycled metal, both ferrous and non-ferrous, contact Madison Steel at 404-343-4855. We have the resources to get large volumes of recycled metal to your home or business, anywhere in the U.S., as soon as you need it.

What is Rebar?

Posted on by Jason Woodruff

Iron gridRebar is the word used for reinforcing steel bars used on structures made of concrete, brick, and other types of materials. The rebar, made of high-carbon steel, protects the structure’s materials from weather and extreme temperatures.  Rebar often has a ridged surface so that it better adheres to the masonry or concrete. Sometimes it is used in cross patterns for extra support. It can be used as primary or secondary reinforcement or for aesthetic purposes.

How to Avoid Rust Corrosion

Because rebar is usually not tempered, it can rust and corrode unless it is embedded deep into the brick or concrete, though not too deep. This is usually caused by weather, water, salt, and other elements, and it will eventually lead to cracks in the concrete. Over time, the rusting and cracking will cause the structure to fail. So how do you avoid this type of rust corrosion?

In a situation where rust may become a problem, a different type of rebar material may be used, such as low carbon or chromium, galvanized, or stainless steel. They often cost more, but the expense outweighs the risk in the long run. Epoxy-covered steel may also be used. In this case, extra care is taken when handling the bars because any type of damage could lead to corrosion over time.

Need Rebar?

If you are in need of rebar steel for your building project, Madison Steel, a global leader in the steel industry, can help. They offer a wide variety of products, including steel bars used for rebar, at competitive prices. To learn more, contact their offices at 404-343-4855.