• 10 Oct 2025

Knowing the Different Grades of Aluminum Scrap

Aluminum is one of the most recycled materials in the world. Lightweight, durable, and corrosion-resistant, it’s widely used in everything from soda cans and car parts to construction materials and electronics. But not all aluminum is created equal — especially when it comes to recycling. In the world of scrap metal, aluminum is sorted into different grades, each with its own value, characteristics, and recycling processes.

Whether you’re a scrapper, recycler, or simply looking to turn your junk into cash, understanding the different grades of aluminum scrap is essential. This guide breaks down the most common types, what distinguishes them, and how to identify each.

Why Does Aluminum Scrap Have Different Grades?

Aluminum comes in many alloys and forms, and its use in different industries affects how it’s processed for recycling. Grades are used to:

• Determine value: Some types are worth significantly more than others.

• Simplify processing: Different grades are melted and recycled differently.

• Ensure quality: Clean, pure aluminum yields higher-quality recycled products.

Common Grades of Aluminum Scrap

Below are the most commonly recognised grades of aluminum scrap in the recycling industry:

1. Clean Aluminum (Pure or Bare Aluminum)

Also known as: Bare Bright Aluminum, Clean Sheet

This is high-grade, uncontaminated aluminum, free of any foreign materials like plastic, rubber, paint, or steel attachments. It’s often found in:

• Clean sheet aluminum siding

• Window frames (with no screws or glass)

• Extruded aluminum (if clean)

Value: High
Tip: The cleaner the aluminum, the more money you can get per pound. Always remove screws, bolts, and other attachments.

2. Aluminum Cans (UBC – Used Beverage Cans)

One of the most familiar forms of aluminum scrap, UBCs are made from high-purity aluminum alloy and are easy to recycle.

Sources:

• Soda cans

• Beer cans

• Energy drink cans

Value: Moderate to High (especially if sorted and clean)
Tip: Crushing cans and separating them from other materials can increase your payout.

3. Sheet Aluminum

This category includes mixed aluminum scrap that has been painted, coated, or has minor attachments (like screws or plastic).

Common items:

• Siding

• Gutters

• Pots and pans

• Appliance panels

Value: Lower than clean aluminum, but still profitable
Tip: The more contamination or paint, the lower the value.

4. Aluminum Siding

Old or new aluminum siding from construction is typically categorised separately. It’s usually painted or coated and may contain fasteners.

Found in:

• Building exteriors

• Roofing panels

Value: Mid-range, depending on cleanliness
Tip: Strip off any foam, insulation, or nails to boost grade.

5. Cast Aluminum

Cast aluminum is made by melting aluminum and pouring it into molds. It’s heavier and more brittle than other grades.

Sources:

• BBQ grills

• Engine parts

• Furniture bases

• Some cookware

Value: Moderate
Tip: Check for steel or non-aluminum parts inside. Magnets can help.

6. Extruded Aluminum

This is aluminum that has been pushed through a die to create specific shapes, often for framing or structural use.

Sources:

• Window frames

• Door frames

• Heat sinks

Types:

• Clean extrusions (free of coatings and attachments)

• Painted or anodized extrusions

Value: High for clean; lower if painted/coated
Tip: Clean extrusions should be free of paint, rubber, or glass.

7. Aluminum Rims

Automobile and motorcycle rims made from aluminum are valuable due to their purity and weight.

Value: High
Tip: Remove any steel valve stems, wheel weights, or rubber to get top-grade pricing.

8. Aluminum Wire and Cable

These are used in electrical systems and can contain varying levels of purity.

Grades:

• Clean Aluminum Wire: Bare and uncoated, high value

• Insulated Aluminum Wire: Lower value due to plastic insulation

Value: Varies based on purity and insulation
Tip: Stripping the wire can raise its value, but weigh the labor against the payout.

9. Taint/Tabor (Mixed Low Copper Aluminum)

A commercial scrap classification that includes mixed aluminum sheets with minimal contamination (i.e., less than 5% copper or other non-aluminum materials).

Used in: Industry-scale recycling
Value: Moderate
Tip: Typically applies to bulk loads from commercial or demolition sources.

10. Twitch (Shredded Aluminum Scrap)

This is shredded aluminum from auto scrap that has been separated from ferrous materials.

Used in: Industrial recycling centers
Value: Varies depending on cleanliness and composition

Factors That Affect Aluminum Scrap Pricing

Several variables influence how much your aluminum scrap is worth:

• Cleanliness: Dirt, paint, or attachments lower the grade.

• Alloy composition: Some alloys contain other metals, which reduce purity.

• Market demand: Prices fluctuate with the global aluminium market demand.

• Quantity: Larger loads often fetch better per-pound prices.

Tips for Maximising Scrap Aluminum Value

1. Separate by grade: Don’t mix cast with sheet or cans with extrusions.

2. Clean your scrap: Remove screws, rubber, paint, and other contaminants.

3. Use a magnet: If it sticks, it’s not aluminum (likely steel).

4. Know your local yard’s rules: Each scrap metal dealer may grade and pay differently.

5. Stay updated on prices: Use online tools or apps to check aluminum rates.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re cleaning out your garage or managing a commercial demolition, understanding the different grades of aluminum scrap can significantly increase your returns. Not all aluminum is worth the same, and a little effort in sorting, cleaning, and identifying your scrap can go a long way.

In a world where sustainability and recycling are more important than ever, knowing your scrap metal not only helps your wallet — it helps the planet, too.

Want to know the current aluminum scrap prices in your area? Contact your local scrap yard or use online resources to check real-time rates!