What is Brass?

Brass is a valuable and versatile metal alloy made primarily from copper and zinc. It is widely used in plumbing, construction, and manufacturing due to its strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion, water, and wear.

Because brass is more expensive to produce than many other common metals, it is highly sought after in the recycling industry and typically achieves strong scrap value.

Where is Plumbing Brass Found?

Plumbing brass is commonly recovered from residential, commercial, and industrial buildings, especially during demolition, renovation, or system upgrades involving water, drainage, or gas lines.

It can be found in a wide range of components, including:

• Faucets and taps
• Valves and fittings
• Pipes and tubing connectors
• Spigots and hose bibs
• Handles and fixture components

What Affects Brass Scrap Value?

The value of scrap brass depends heavily on its cleanliness and composition. Clean brass that is free from contamination typically receives a higher price than mixed or dirty material.

Contaminants such as plastic, rubber, paint, dirt, or attached non-metal components can reduce the overall scrap value, as additional processing is required.

Brass vs. Bronze

It is important to correctly identify brass before selling, as it is often confused with bronze due to their similar appearance and hardness. Although they can look alike, they are different alloys and may have different scrap values.

Proper identification ensures that the material is correctly sorted and valued, helping you receive the most accurate pricing for your scrap metal.