The sustainable cycle of green stainless steel: the recycling of scraps

The recycling of scraps has become one of the most important solutions for tackling environmental challenges and the growing demand for natural resources. In this process, converting scraps into stainless steel has stood out as one of the most efficient methods for reusing metallic materials, reducing carbon emissions and preserving natural resources. This article will examine how this recycling works, its benefits on the environment and the economy, and how it contributes to a more sustainable industry.

The importance of the recycling of scraps to stainless steel production

Stainless steel production from virgin raw materials requires large amounts of energy and the mining of minerals, such as iron and chromium. This process not only consumes limited resources but also causes high levels of greenhouse gas emissions. However, the recycling of scraps significantly reduces the need for mining new raw materials and reduces the carbon footprint of the production.

At thyssenkrupp, we are striving to reduce our environmental footprint by producing sustainable materials, for example by reusing scraps to create new materials. We have created a carbon footprint calculator and also provide consultation to our customers who wish to adjust their productivity to European regulations on climate neutrality.

For more information, contact our experts at Greenability and climate consultation.

Stainless steel is 100% recyclable which means that it can be reused endlessly without losing its physical or chemical characteristics. This closed cycle makes scrap recycling essential for the long-term sustainability of the metallurgical industry.

How does the scrap recycling process work?

The recycling of scraps into stainless steel is an industrial process with the following phases:

1. Collection and sorting: scraps are collected from various sources, such as old vehicles, disused household appliances, construction debris and industrial machinery. Later, they are classified according to their metallic composition. It is essential to separate stainless steel scraps from other metals and materials.

2. Shredding and preparation: once the scraps are classified, they are shredded into small pieces, using industrial shredding machines. This makes its handling and subsequent casting easier. In this phase, impurities (such as plastics, paint or non-metallic materials adhering to the scraps) are removed.

3. Casting: shredded scraps are put in high-temperature electric furnaces where they are cast to form a liquid alloy. In this phase, its composition is adjusted by adding chromium, nickel and other materials to obtain stainless steel with the desired properties.

4. Refining and moulding: the liquid alloy undergoes refining processes to eliminate any residual impurities and adjust its content of chromium and other materials according to technical specifications. Later, it is poured into moulds to form stainless steel ingots, plates or bars.

5. Finishing and distribution: once recycled stainless steel is cooled and solidified, it undergoes finishing processes, such as lamination or cutting to obtain the appropriate format according to its final destination. Afterwards, it is distributed between manufacturers and companies which use it for producing finished goods.

Benefits of recycling scraps in stainless steel production

The recycling of scraps for stainless steel production offers various benefits for both the environment and the economy:

• Reduction of the carbon footprint: stainless steel production consumes up to 70% less energy compared to manufacturing from virgin raw materials. This significantly contributes to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

• Saving natural resources: by using recycled scraps, the need for mining minerals such as iron and chromium is minimised, thus preserving natural resources.

• Less landfill waste: recycling scraps prevents large quantities of metals from ending up in landfills, thus reducing soil and water pollution.

• Sustainable life cycle: since stainless steel is 100% recyclable, its life cycle is almost endless. Every time it is recycled, the characteristics of the metal are preserved, thus becoming a highly sustainable option.

• Boosting the circular economy: the metal-recycling industry promotes the circular economy, an economic model in which products are designed to be reused, recycled and regenerated, minimising waste.

The role of the industry and the future of stainless steel recycling

More and more industries are adopting sustainable practices, and stainless steel recycling is a key component of these strategies. The technological development in recycling processes allows the improvement of converting scraps, reducing the environmental impact even more.

In the near future, it is expected that the demand for recycled stainless steel will keep growing, driven by the need for cleaner and more sustainable industries. Moreover, governments and organisations are implementing stricter recycling policies and environmental regulations which boost the use of recycled materials in industrial production. 

The recycling of scraps into stainless steel is a key practice in the struggle for sustainability. This process does not only contribute to the preservation of natural resources and the reduction of pollutant emissions but also boosts the circular economy and creates new economic opportunities. The next time you use stainless steel utensils or look at stainless steel structures, perhaps they were partly made of recycled scraps, fulfilling their role in a virtuous cycle which is beneficial for both the planet and society.