Understanding Aluminum Recycling: From Scrap to Premium Products

Aluminum recycling works well and helps the environment. Here is how scrap turns into new, high‑quality products.

The Aluminum Recycling Process

The journey from scrap to product has clear steps. Each step protects quality and saves energy.

1. Collection and Sorting

We collect aluminum scrap from many sources:

• Post-consumer products (beverage cans, automotive parts, construction materials)
• Post-industrial scrap (manufacturing offcuts, production waste)
• End-of-life products (building materials, transportation equipment)

2. Preparation and Cleaning

After collection, we prepare the scrap:

• Sorting by alloy type - Different aluminum alloys require separate processing
• Removal of contaminants - Paint, labels, and other materials are removed
• Size reduction - Large pieces are shredded or cut to optimal sizes
• Magnetic separation - Ferrous materials are removed using powerful magnets

3. Melting and Refining

The prepared scrap goes into efficient melting furnaces:

• Aluminum melts at approximately 660°C (1220°F)
• Impurities are removed through skimming and fluxing
• Alloy composition is adjusted to meet specific requirements
• Quality testing ensures consistency and purity

4. Casting and Formation

The refined metal is cast into different forms:

• Ingots - For further processing into sheets, plates, or other products
• Billets - For extrusion into profiles, tubes, and complex shapes
• Slabs - For rolling into sheets and foils

OneSky's Advanced Recycling Technology

At OneSky Green Aluminum, we use modern equipment to boost efficiency and quality:

Integrated Processing System

Our site links recycling, treatment, melting, and forming. Fewer transfers mean lower costs and less impact.

Quality Assurance

Each batch is tested to meet or exceed standards for:

• Chemical composition
• Mechanical properties
• Surface quality
• Dimensional accuracy

Environmental Benefits

Recycling brings clear environmental gains:

• 95% energy savings compared to primary aluminum production
• Infinite recyclability - aluminum can be recycled indefinitely without quality loss
• Reduced mining impact - less need for bauxite extraction
• Lower carbon emissions - significantly reduced greenhouse gas production

Applications of Recycled Aluminum

Recycled aluminum serves many industries:

• Construction - Window frames, curtain walls, roofing systems
• Automotive - Engine blocks, wheels, body panels
• Packaging - Beverage cans, food containers
• Industrial - Heat exchangers, electrical components

This process turns waste into value and cuts emissions. It shows the circular economy at work.

Learn more about our recycling process and our sustainability practices.