Facts About Ferrous Metals

You may wonder where you come across ferrous metals in your life, but they are everywhere. The term “ferrous” comes from the Latin phrase for “containing iron.” Therefore ferrous metals are either pure iron or an alloy containing iron.

Here are a few more interesting tidbits about ferrous metals:

• The most common ferrous metal alloy is steel, which can be found in cars, household appliances, construction beams and food cans.
• Ferrous metals as a group make up the most recycled product in North America.
• The annual recycling rate for cars is near 100 percent.
• Because ferrous metal covers so many different types of materials (those mentioned above, as well as  paper clips and possibly your pots and pans), you can recycle many different products at once.
• Ferrous metals have great resale value, meaning you’re more likely to find locations that accept them and ones who are willing to pay you for recycling.
• Recycling one ton of steel conserves 2,500 pounds of iron ore, 1,400 pounds of coal and 120 pounds of limestone.
• Recycled steel has the same strength as new steel, and a typical appliance is about 75 percent recycled steel.