Specifications and Classification of Shredded Scrap

In secondary metals trading, shredded scrap metal (frequently designated within international circular markets as ISRI Grade 210 or Grade 211) is one of the most liquid and tightly standardized recycled raw materials in the global manufacturing supply chain. Unlike miscellaneous mixed scrap, shredded scrap consists of magnetically separated, structurally fragmented steel fragments derived primarily from end-of-life motor vehicles, household appliances, and light commercial fabrications.

Physical and Chemical Metrics of Premium Shredded Scrap

To trade internationally without costly testing disputes or shipping rejections, shredded scrap must conform to clear operational criteria:

· Homogeneous Particle Sizing: The bulk of processed pieces must measure no less than 75 mm and typically not exceed 200 mm in any direction. This size ensures the material flows through automated scrap bucket gates and vibratory furnace charging chutes without jamming.

· High Bulk Density: The material must clear an average bulk density minimum of 50 to 70 pounds per cubic foot (roughly 0.8 to 1.1 metric tons per cubic meter). Higher bulk densities mean maritime shipping holds and road trailers reach their weight limits without wasting cargo space on empty air gaps.

· Controlled Residual Metallics (Copper Penalties): Copper is the primary contaminant in secondary steelmaking; it causes hot-shortness, a condition where steel cracks during continuous rolling. Premium shredded scrap relies on strict air separation and hand-sorting lines to keep residual copper content strictly below 0.20% to 0.25%, ensuring it is safe for high-strength rebar and structural beam production.

· Total Scrap Charge (100%)

  â”œâ”€â”€ High-Purity Shredded Scrap (60-80%) âž” Rapid melt-in, predictable density

  â””── Heavy Melting Steel (HMS 1/2) (20-40%) âž” Adds structural mass to furnace bottom

Why Steel Mills Prefer Shredded Scrap Over Heavy Melting Scrap (HMS)

While Heavy Melting Steel (HMS 1 and HMS 2) consists of thicker raw steel sections, its irregular, jagged shapes regularly lead to dangerous bridge-overs inside Electric Arc Furnaces, where un-melted scrap jams high up on furnace walls before dropping suddenly and snapping carbon electrodes. Shredded scrap metal flows almost like a fluid aggregate: it fills voids between heavy charging bundles, shields furnace refractory walls from direct arc radiation, absorbs heat rapidly, and enables melt shops to run their furnaces at maximum electrical efficiency.

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