How are certified metals different from scrap?

Here are three big reasons!

1. Verified Grade and Chemistry

Certified metals come with documented material test reports (MTRs) that verify the exact grade, alloy composition, and mechanical properties of the material. This means you know precisely whether you’re buying A36 vs. 1018 carbon steel, or 304 vs. 316 stainless—and that it meets recognized industry standards. Scrap metal, by contrast, is typically unverified and mixed, with unknown chemistry and no assurance that it will perform as expected in structural, mechanical, or precision applications.

2. Predictable Performance and Compliance

Because certified metals are traceable and tested, they deliver predictable strength, machinability, weldability, and corrosion resistance. This reliability is critical for parts that must meet engineering specs, pass inspections, or comply with customer, regulatory, or quality-system requirements. Scrap metal may be fine for art projects or general reuse, but it cannot be confidently used where performance, safety, or compliance matters.

3. Higher Value and Lower Risk

Certified metals retain higher value because they can be confidently reused in fabrication, prototyping, and production work. Buyers reduce the risk of failed parts, rework, and downtime, while sellers recover more value from surplus inventory. Scrap is priced low because of uncertainty and limited reuse potential; certified material commands a premium because it remains a functional, dependable input for real manufacturing and industrial use.