Brass Scrap Metal Guide
Brass is a valuable copper-zinc alloy prized for its corrosion resistance, attractive golden color, and machinability. It is 100% recyclable without any loss of quality, making it one of the most sustainable metals to recycle. At Bare Metals, we buy all types of brass scrap at competitive prices across our three Georgia locations.
The value of brass comes from its copper content, which typically ranges from 60% to 90% depending on the alloy. Red brass, with its higher copper content, commands a premium over yellow brass. Georgia's plumbing, construction, and manufacturing industries generate significant quantities of recyclable brass.
Types of Brass We Buy
Yellow Brass - Standard Brass Price
The most common type of scrap brass with approximately 60-70% copper and 30-40% zinc. Found in plumbing fixtures, door hardware, decorative items, and ammunition casings. Yellow brass has a bright golden-yellow color.
Red Brass - Premium Price
Contains 85-90% copper with lower zinc content, giving it a reddish hue. Red brass is more valuable due to its higher copper content. Common sources include water meters, fire hydrant fittings, and older plumbing valves.
Brass Fittings & Valves - Good Price
Plumbing fittings, gate valves, ball valves, and pipe connectors. Remove any steel handles, screws, or non-brass attachments for the best price. These are extremely common in plumbing renovation projects.
Brass Shells & Casings - Variable Price
Spent ammunition casings from shooting ranges. Must be clean and free of live rounds. Brass casings are a popular recycling item among shooting sports enthusiasts.
How to Identify Brass
- Golden-yellow color (yellow brass) or reddish-gold color (red brass)
- Non-magnetic — a magnet will not stick to real brass
- Heavier than aluminum but lighter than steel for the same size
- Makes a bell-like ringing sound when struck
- Does not rust, though it may develop a dark tarnish or green patina
- Scratch test: scratching reveals a bright gold color underneath tarnish
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between yellow brass and red brass?
Yellow brass contains 60-70% copper and has a bright golden color. Red brass contains 85-90% copper and has a reddish hue. Red brass is more valuable because of its higher copper content.
How do I tell if something is real brass or brass-plated?
Use a magnet first — brass is non-magnetic. Then scratch an inconspicuous area. If you see a different color metal underneath the gold surface, it's brass-plated steel or zinc. Real brass is the same color throughout.
Where can I sell brass scrap in Georgia?
Bare Metals buys all types of brass at our Griffin (1500 Kalamazoo Dr), Newnan (2793 Martin Mill Rd), and Atlanta (3799 Browns Mill Rd SE) locations. We offer competitive prices with instant cash payment.