Nickel alloys are high-performance materials composed of a nickel matrix (typically ≥50% nickel content) with added elements such as chromium, molybdenum, aluminum, and titanium. They maintain stable properties under high-temperature, high-pressure, and corrosive conditions. Based on international market data, nickel alloy scrap prices typically fluctuate between $25,000 and $30,000 per metric ton, depending on alloy type, nickel content, and market demand. For instance, common nickel-copper alloy scrap commands approximately $5,000 to $10,000 per metric ton, while high-performance nickel-chromium alloy scrap can exceed $30,000 per metric ton. Argus Scrap Markets provides daily global tracking of nickel alloy scrap prices, covering over 350 price assessments across Europe, North America, and the Asia-Pacific region. This serves as a vital reference for international metal traders. It is important to note that nickel alloy scrap prices are closely correlated with LME nickel price movements but are also influenced by international trade policies and supply chain efficiency.
Note: The nickel alloy recycling prices in this article are not final. Contact precious metal recyclers for the best available prices.
Nickel alloy scrap generated in the aerospace sector primarily consists of high-temperature alloys such as Inconel 718 and Haynes 282 scrap. These materials exhibit excellent creep strength and thermal stability, maintaining performance in high-temperature environments ranging from 650-930°C. The energy sector (including nuclear power and gas turbines) produces nickel alloy scrap primarily from heat-resistant alloys like Incoloy 800H/800HT. These materials undergo solution treatment with grain refinement to ASTM 5.0, delivering outstanding creep resistance. Corrosion-resistant nickel alloy scrap from petrochemical equipment includes Hastelloy C series (e.g., C-276) and Monel series (e.g., Monel 400). These alloys resist strong acids and seawater corrosion, making them ideal for chloride-ion environments. The electronics and automotive industries primarily supply nickel foam scrap and nickel-copper alloy scrap, used for battery electrodes and catalytic converter carriers. These materials feature high porosity (60%-98%), large specific surface area, and lightweight properties.
Nickel alloy scrap containing precious metal coatings or plating commands the highest prices on the international market. These materials are commonly found in aircraft engine turbine blades and chemical catalysts, where surfaces are coated with precious metals like platinum, palladium, or rhodium to enhance oxidation resistance and catalytic efficiency. According to Argus Scrap Market Reports, such nickel alloy scrap typically commands 40-60% higher prices than standard nickel alloy scrap, depending on the type and content of precious metals. Recyclers require specialized electrolytic or chemical stripping processes to extract precious metals, resulting in higher technical costs but significant returns. For instance, platinum-coated Inconel 625 scrap can command over $50,000 per ton, while its standard counterpart fetches approximately $30,000. Detailed material certificates and coating composition analyses must be provided during transactions to ensure accurate pricing of nickel alloy scrap.
The price of nickel alloy scrap primarily depends on nickel content and alloy composition. N6 pure nickel scrap with over 99% nickel content can fetch $28,000–30,000 per ton, while low-nickel alloys (30–50% nickel) may drop below $15,000 per ton. Second, material form and cleanliness significantly impact pricing: uncontaminated turnings or sheet stock, being easier to inspect and remelt, command prices 20-30% higher than mixed scrap. Third, shifts in global market demand directly influence nickel alloy scrap prices; robust demand for aerospace-grade scrap in Europe and North America drives up costs, while Asian markets focus more on battery-grade sponge nickel scrap. Finally, recycling technology costs: Advanced techniques like bioleaching or electrolytic refining improve recovery rates but increase processing expenses, resulting in 10-15% price variations for final nickel alloy scrap. Experience shows suppliers must provide ASTM or AMS standard certifications to secure optimal quotes.
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