Gold is a precious metal and the goal of many metal scrappers, but it isn't the most valuable thing in the world. For computer recycling enthusiasts, gold isn't really a big part of the recycling calculation because of other, more affordable or better conducting materials in modern gold-included computers. If you've been stumped by the low amount of gold inside computers, don't fret; there's still plenty of other materials ready for you to take away for valuable recycling.

Hard Drives For Aluminum, Steel And Metal

Hard drives are protected by an aluminum or steel case that has a decent thickness to it, granting a decent amount of scrap metal for recycling. You can remove the case by removing a few basic screws with a small sized/jeweler's screwdriver set. The case is also held in place by a circuit board, but the board can be removed fairly easily with prying or simple screw removal.

Although the metal case is quite dense, much of the hard drive's weight comes from the platters. These platters are not made out of metal, but out of a glass, ceramic or silicon-like material used to store data. These may be recyclable, but the rate depends on the specific composition.

The real worth inside hard drives comes from the rare earth magnets. These magnets can be pulled away or pried with a screwdriver, but be prepared for a struggle. The magnets are used in lieu of screws for their strength, as screws can eventually shake loose during the spinning action of the hard drive platters.

Rare earth magnets are valuable at recycling centers, but there are also hobbyists who are interested in the magnets because of their small, pre-formed shape that can be easily adapted for other projects.

Aluminum And Copper Heat Sinks

Heat sinks are used to pull heat away from certain components while becoming cooled by airflow. The heat sinks are designed by taking a solid block of aluminum or copper and cutting fins into the top. These fins allow air to pass through while cooling on both sides, reducing overall temperature and allowing more heat to travel up to the fins.

Aluminum is the most common heat sink material, but copper heat sinks can be found in many custom or high-performance machines. Be careful when handling heat sinks, as the fins can be sharp enough to slice the skin.

Contact scrap metal buyers like Summit Recycling of Penn Hills for going rates to figure out which components are worth your attention.

Share