Prepared vs Unprepared Steel Scrap: Classification, Differences and Preparation Tips

## Steel Scrap Classification in Metallurgy At recycling centers like EURO-SCRAP in Poznań, steel scrap is categorized based on European standards into two primary categories: **prepared (batch) scrap** and **unprepared scrap**. ### 1. Prepared (Batch) Scrap (W Grades) Prepared scrap can be loaded directly into an electric arc furnace without additional processing: - **Wall Thickness:** Minimum 4 mm (grade W5) or 6–8 mm (grade W13). - **Dimensions:** Max 1500 x 500 x 500 mm. - **Safety:** Free from sealed pressure vessels, shock absorbers, or flammable residue. ### 2. Unprepared Scrap (N Grades) Unprepared steel exceeds furnace dimensions and requires mechanical shearing or oxy-fuel cutting: - **Structural Beams:** I-beams, H-beams, railway tracks over 1.5 m. - **Large Vessels & Frames:** Industrial pipework, machinery frames, decommissioned farm equipment. - **Light Sheet Metal:** Requires hydraulic baling into dense bundles. ### Logistics and Container Placement in Poznań For large industrial demolition projects or site clearances, EURO-SCRAP provides heavy scrap containers (up to 36 m³) and crane trucks (HDS) across Poznań and Greater Poland.