Scrap Brass Prices Canada: A Comprehensive Guide

In Canada, the market for scrap brass is one of the most dynamic and valuable sectors in the recycling industry. Brass, an alloy composed primarily of copper and zinc, is highly sought after due to its malleability, durability, and corrosion resistance. From household plumbing fixtures to industrial components, scrap brass has a wide range of applications, making it a lucrative material for both individual sellers and businesses.




However, the price of scrap brass fluctuates based on various factors, including global commodity markets, local demand, and the condition of the material being sold. Understanding the factors that influence scrap brass prices in Canada is essential for anyone looking to sell brass scrap or for businesses seeking to make informed decisions about their waste disposal and recycling strategies.

This article will explore the key aspects of scrap brass prices in Canada, providing a comprehensive overview of how prices are determined, where to sell scrap brass, and tips for maximizing the value of your scrap brass. Whether you're a homeowner, a contractor, or an industrial supplier, understanding the intricacies of scrap brass pricing can help you make the most of your scrap material.

Table of Contents:

  1. Introduction to Scrap Brass

    • What is Brass?
    • Types of Brass Used in Recycling
    • Importance of Brass Recycling in Canada

  2. Factors Influencing Scrap Brass Prices in Canada

    • Global Copper and Zinc Prices
    • Supply and Demand Dynamics
    • Economic Factors and Market Conditions
    • Quality and Condition of Scrap Brass

  3. Current Scrap Brass Prices in Canada

    • Average Prices for Different Types of Scrap Brass
    • Price Trends and Market Forecast
    • Regional Variations in Scrap Brass Prices

  4. How to Sell Scrap Brass in Canada

    • Finding Local Scrap Yards and Recycling Centers
    • Understanding the Payment Structure for Scrap Brass
    • Tips for Preparing Scrap Brass for Sale
    • How to Get the Best Price for Your Brass

  5. Environmental Benefits of Brass Recycling

    • Reducing Waste and Conserving Resources
    • Energy Savings Through Brass Recycling
    • Supporting Sustainable Practices in Canada’s Recycling Industry

  6. Common Uses of Scrap Brass

    • Plumbing and Electrical Components
    • Automotive Parts
    • Industrial Machinery and Equipment

  7. Challenges in the Scrap Brass Market

    • Dealing with Contaminated Brass Scrap
    • Fluctuating Scrap Prices and Their Impact on Sellers
    • Environmental and Regulatory Concerns

  8. The Future of Scrap Brass in Canada

    • Innovations in Brass Recycling
    • The Role of Technology in Scrap Brass Processing
    • The Growing Importance of Circular Economy Principles

1. Introduction to Scrap Brass

Brass is an alloy primarily made from copper and zinc, with the percentage of each metal varying depending on the specific type of brass. It is widely used across a range of industries due to its strength, corrosion resistance, and versatility. In the context of recycling, brass is a valuable material because it can be melted down and reused, reducing the need for raw materials and conserving energy in the process.

In Canada, the recycling of scrap brass is a vital part of the metal recycling industry. With a rich history of mining and metal production, the country has an established infrastructure for processing scrap metal, including brass. As a result, scrap brass is often collected from households, businesses, and industrial facilities, contributing to the country’s economy and reducing the environmental impact of raw material extraction.

What is Brass?

Brass is a metallic alloy typically composed of copper and zinc, although small amounts of other elements, such as lead, tin, and iron, may also be present. The most common types of brass used in industrial applications are known as “yellow brass” (with approximately 60-70% copper and 30-40% zinc) and “red brass” (with higher copper content, often around 85%).

Types of Brass Used in Recycling

Brass scrap can be categorized into various types, depending on the composition and condition of the material. Common types include:

  • Clean Brass: This is scrap brass that is free from contaminants like steel, plastic, or other metals. Clean brass is generally the most valuable in the recycling market.

  • Mixed Brass: This type includes brass that is mixed with other metals, such as steel or copper. It is typically less valuable than clean brass.

  • Brass Plumbing and Fixtures: This type of brass is commonly found in plumbing pipes, faucets, and fixtures.

Importance of Brass Recycling in Canada

Recycling brass helps conserve resources, reduces the need for mining new copper and zinc, and lowers energy consumption. It also provides economic opportunities for businesses and individuals involved in the scrap metal industry. Brass recycling is an important component of Canada’s broader recycling and waste management efforts.

2. Factors Influencing Scrap Brass Prices in Canada

Several factors determine the price of scrap brass in Canada, and understanding them can help sellers maximize the value of their materials.

Global Copper and Zinc Prices

Since brass is made primarily from copper and zinc, the prices of these metals directly affect the price of scrap brass. Copper is one of the most widely traded metals globally, and its price fluctuates based on demand in industries such as construction, electronics, and renewable energy. Zinc prices are similarly influenced by global demand, particularly from industries like galvanization and battery production.

Supply and Demand Dynamics

The balance between the supply of and demand for scrap brass also plays a key role in pricing. If demand for brass in manufacturing or construction is high, scrap brass prices tend to rise. Conversely, when demand drops, prices may fall.

Economic Factors and Market Conditions

The overall economic climate can influence the price of scrap brass. In times of economic growth, demand for construction and industrial products typically increases, driving up the price of scrap brass. In contrast, during recessions, demand may decrease, leading to lower prices.

Quality and Condition of Scrap Brass

The quality of the brass being recycled also impacts its value. Clean, high-quality brass is worth more than contaminated or mixed brass, which requires more processing before it can be reused.


1. Introduction to Scrap Brass

Brass is a versatile and valuable material, widely used in both industrial and household applications. It has an appealing balance of strength, corrosion resistance, and ease of fabrication, making it an essential part of many products. For these reasons, it is one of the most commonly recycled metals in Canada. Scrap brass can be found in plumbing systems, electrical components, automotive parts, and more.

What is Brass?

At its core, brass is an alloy made from copper and zinc, although other elements like lead, tin, and iron may be included in specific types of brass. The copper content in brass typically ranges from 55% to 95%, depending on the alloy type, which influences the material's color, strength, and corrosion resistance.

Some common brass types include:

  • Yellow Brass: Typically made of 60-70% copper and 30-40% zinc. This is the most common form of brass used in plumbing fixtures, door hardware, and decorative applications.
  • Red Brass: Contains higher copper content (about 85%) and is often used in plumbing and electrical components due to its corrosion resistance.
  • Leaded Brass: Contains lead, which makes the brass easier to machine. It is commonly used for manufacturing precision parts like valves, fittings, and other components.

Recycling brass is a crucial process in reducing environmental impact, as it prevents the need for raw copper and zinc mining, both of which can have significant ecological consequences.

Types of Brass Used in Recycling

Recyclers typically encounter several types of scrap brass, including:

  • Clean Brass: This is the most valuable type of brass scrap. It is free of contaminants like steel, aluminum, or plastic, meaning it can be reused without additional processing.
  • Mixed Brass: Often contains brass combined with other metals, such as copper or steel. Mixed brass is less valuable because it requires additional processing to separate the metals.
  • Brass Plumbing: Commonly found in old plumbing pipes, faucets, and fixtures, this type of brass is valuable if it is relatively free of contamination from other materials like plastic or lead.
  • Brass Radiators and Car Parts: These types of scrap brass come from old vehicles or industrial machinery, often requiring cleaning or disassembly before they can be properly recycled.

Importance of Brass Recycling in Canada

Brass recycling offers significant environmental benefits. By recycling brass, Canada reduces the need for mining and processing raw metals, which saves energy and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. The recycling of brass also conserves natural resources and promotes a circular economy, where valuable materials are continually reused instead of being discarded.

Recycling brass supports Canada’s commitment to sustainability by diverting waste from landfills and contributing to the reduction of resource consumption. It also provides economic benefits, as recycling brass can create jobs in the waste management and recycling industries, while simultaneously reducing the environmental footprint of manufacturing processes.

2. Factors Influencing Scrap Brass Prices in Canada

Scrap brass prices fluctuate due to a variety of factors, both global and local. Understanding the key drivers behind these price changes can help sellers navigate the market and maximize the value of their materials.

Global Copper and Zinc Prices

Since brass is made primarily of copper and zinc, the prices of these metals are closely tied to the price of scrap brass. Copper, in particular, is one of the most widely traded metals in the world, and its price is influenced by numerous factors, including:

  • Global Supply and Demand: As the demand for copper in industries like construction, electronics, and renewable energy increases, so too does its price. When copper prices rise, brass prices typically follow suit.
  • Commodity Markets: Copper prices are subject to the volatility of commodity markets, where they can be affected by factors such as geopolitical instability, mining strikes, or changes in trade policies. For instance, the US-China trade war in recent years had a significant impact on global copper prices, influencing brass prices as well.

Similarly, zinc prices can fluctuate based on factors like:

  • Supply Shortages: Zinc mining operations can be affected by environmental regulations, labor strikes, or natural disasters, which can lead to supply shortages and price increases.
  • Demand from the Galvanization Industry: Zinc is widely used to coat steel and iron to prevent rusting, so increased demand in the automotive and construction industries can drive up zinc prices, and in turn, scrap brass prices.

Supply and Demand Dynamics

The balance between supply and demand is a major determinant of scrap brass prices. When demand for brass increases due to growth in the construction, automotive, or manufacturing industries, the price of scrap brass tends to rise. For example:

  • Industrial Demand: The construction and automotive sectors are key drivers of scrap brass demand. As new buildings are constructed and new vehicles are produced, the demand for brass components, such as fittings, radiators, and electrical connectors, increases.
  • Plumbing and Electronics: Brass is often used in plumbing systems and electrical components. When there is a surge in construction or renovation activity, demand for brass in plumbing fixtures and electrical wiring can push prices up.

Conversely, when demand slows, such as during an economic recession or a dip in the construction industry, scrap brass prices tend to fall.

Economic Factors and Market Conditions

Scrap brass prices are closely tied to broader economic conditions. Economic growth tends to drive up demand for metal products, as industries expand and manufacturing ramps up. Conversely, during periods of economic contraction, prices can decrease. In addition to these cyclical trends, several other economic factors influence brass prices:

  • Inflation: Rising inflation can increase the cost of raw materials, labor, and energy, leading to higher scrap brass prices.
  • Trade Policies and Tariffs: Changes in trade policies, such as the imposition of tariffs on imported metals, can increase the cost of scrap brass and affect the pricing structure.

Quality and Condition of Scrap Brass

The condition of the scrap brass also plays a significant role in determining its price. Clean, unadulterated brass is more valuable than mixed or contaminated brass, as it requires less processing to refine and reuse. Sellers should aim to separate brass from other materials, such as copper, steel, or aluminum, to fetch a higher price.

Brass that has been exposed to corrosion or other forms of wear and tear may also fetch a lower price. This is because recycling facilities must invest more time and resources to clean and process lower-quality brass.

3. Current Scrap Brass Prices in Canada

Scrap brass prices in Canada fluctuate regularly due to the factors discussed above. As of the latest market trends, here are some typical price ranges for different types of scrap brass:

Average Prices for Different Types of Scrap Brass

  • Clean Brass: Prices for clean brass can range from $3.50 to $5.50 per pound, depending on the market conditions.
  • Mixed Brass: Mixed brass generally fetches lower prices, typically ranging from $2.00 to $3.00 per pound.
  • Brass Radiators: Brass from old radiators or car parts can range from $2.50 to $4.00 per pound, depending on the amount of brass and contaminants.
  • Brass Fittings and Plumbing: Prices for scrap brass plumbing fixtures and fittings typically range from $2.50 to $3.50 per pound.

It is important to note that these prices are approximate and can vary by region, time of year, and current market conditions. Prices can also fluctuate daily, so sellers should stay updated on the latest trends to get the best deal.

Price Trends and Market Forecast

Over the past few years, scrap brass prices have followed the broader trend of copper and zinc prices, experiencing periods of growth during times of economic recovery and contraction during downturns. According to market experts, prices are expected to rise steadily in the coming years, driven by:

  • Increasing Demand: The growing construction industry, particularly in Canada’s urban centers, will continue to drive demand for brass products.
  • Environmental Regulations: As environmental regulations around mining and raw material extraction become stricter, the demand for recycled brass will likely increase, further pushing up prices.

However, market volatility, particularly in global commodity markets, remains a significant risk that could affect prices.

Regional Variations in Scrap Brass Prices

Prices for scrap brass can vary depending on the region within Canada. Larger cities with robust industrial sectors, like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, may see higher prices due to greater demand for scrap metal. Rural areas, where access to recycling facilities is more limited, may experience lower prices due to transportation costs and fewer buyers.

4. How to Sell Scrap Brass in Canada

Selling scrap brass in Canada is relatively straightforward, but getting the best price requires some preparation and understanding of the market. Here are some tips for successfully selling your scrap brass:

Finding Local Scrap Yards and Recycling Centers

To sell scrap brass, you’ll first need to locate a local scrap yard or recycling center that accepts brass. Many recycling centers specialize in different types of metal, so be sure to find one that specifically handles brass. You can use online directories or local listings to find the nearest recycling facilities. It’s also a good idea to call ahead to inquire about current brass prices.

Understanding the Payment Structure for Scrap Brass

Most scrap yards will weigh your brass before offering payment, based on the current market value. Payment is often made in cash or via check, depending on the amount being sold. Some yards may also offer a premium for high-quality or large quantities of brass.

Tips for Preparing Scrap Brass for Sale

To maximize the value of your scrap brass, follow these steps:

  • Separate Contaminants: Remove any other metals, plastics, or non-metal parts from your brass before taking it to the yard.
  • Clean the Brass: If possible, clean your brass scrap to remove tarnish, oil, or dirt, as this can help increase its value.
  • Bundle Similar Types of Brass: Group similar types of brass together (e.g., clean brass fittings, plumbing brass) for easier pricing.

How to Get the Best Price for Your Brass

To get the best price for your scrap brass:

  • Shop Around: Prices can vary from one scrap yard to another, so it’s worth checking with multiple yards to find the best offer.
  • Timing: Try to sell your brass when prices are high, such as during periods of strong demand in the recycling market.

5. Environmental Benefits of Brass Recycling

Recycling brass offers a range of environmental benefits, making it a critical part of Canada's commitment to sustainability and resource conservation. Brass, as an alloy of copper and zinc, has a relatively high value when recycled, contributing not only to the economy but also to reducing the environmental impact of mining and waste.

Reducing Waste and Conserving Resources

The extraction of raw materials, particularly copper and zinc, requires significant energy input and often has substantial environmental costs, such as deforestation, habitat destruction, and soil contamination. By recycling brass, the need for these raw materials is diminished, leading to less resource depletion and a lower environmental impact.

Canada's mining industry has long been an integral part of the economy, but the environmental challenges associated with mining have raised awareness about the need for sustainable practices. Brass recycling offers a direct and effective way to reduce the reliance on newly mined metals, conserving natural resources and minimizing environmental degradation.

Energy Savings Through Brass Recycling

Recycling brass consumes significantly less energy compared to extracting and refining raw copper and zinc. According to some estimates, recycling brass saves approximately 90% of the energy required to produce new brass from raw materials. This energy conservation is particularly important in Canada, where electricity generation often relies on fossil fuels, contributing to carbon emissions. By recycling brass, not only is energy conserved, but greenhouse gas emissions are also reduced, helping combat climate change.

Brass recycling facilities use advanced technologies to melt down the metal and reprocess it, typically using far less energy than that required for primary metal production. This energy-saving aspect of recycling makes brass one of the more environmentally friendly metals to recycle.

Supporting Sustainable Practices in Canada’s Recycling Industry

Brass recycling supports Canada's broader sustainability goals by providing a more environmentally friendly option for waste management and manufacturing processes. By reducing the need for raw materials, Canadian recycling facilities contribute to a circular economy model. In this model, products are continually recycled, reused, and remanufactured, reducing the strain on the environment and promoting resource efficiency.

Additionally, recycling brass creates a closed-loop system where metals are used repeatedly without degrading in quality. This is especially important in industries like construction, automotive, and electronics, where the demand for durable, high-quality materials remains constant. The continued recycling of brass ensures that these industries can keep sourcing the material without needing to extract new resources, thus promoting sustainability across the board.

6. Common Uses of Scrap Brass

Scrap brass is a versatile material with a wide range of applications across various industries. Recycling brass contributes to the supply of raw material for these applications, further underlining its value. Below are some of the most common uses of brass, showcasing the versatility of the material.

Plumbing and Electrical Components

Brass is an excellent material for plumbing due to its corrosion resistance and malleability. Old plumbing fixtures, including faucets, valves, and pipes, are often made of brass. When these items are retired or replaced, they can be sold as scrap brass and recycled for future use in new plumbing systems. The demand for recycled brass in plumbing is particularly high in Canada, where construction and home renovations continue to be major industries.

Electrical components also commonly use brass due to its excellent conductivity and resistance to corrosion. Brass is frequently used in electrical connectors, switches, and other components found in electronics and electrical systems. The recycling of brass from electrical waste helps keep up with the demand for these materials in an increasingly technology-driven world.

Automotive Parts

Brass is used in various automotive parts, including radiators, engine components, and fittings. Car manufacturers value brass for its durability and ability to withstand high temperatures without deteriorating. As vehicles are decommissioned, brass components are harvested and recycled, contributing to the supply of materials needed to produce new automotive parts.

Brass also plays a role in the production of high-performance parts, where strength and corrosion resistance are crucial. Recycled brass from automotive scrap is commonly melted down and refined to produce new parts, reducing the need for virgin materials.

Industrial Machinery and Equipment

In industrial machinery, brass is commonly used for components that require both strength and resistance to corrosion. These can include valves, bearings, gears, and bushings. Brass is also used in manufacturing equipment for the food and beverage industry, where corrosion resistance is particularly important due to frequent exposure to water and chemicals.

The ability to recycle brass from old machines and equipment helps ensure that industries continue to have access to this vital material without putting additional strain on the environment. Furthermore, using recycled brass in industrial applications can reduce the overall cost of manufacturing, benefiting industries in terms of both sustainability and cost-effectiveness.

7. Challenges in the Scrap Brass Market

Despite its importance in the recycling industry, the scrap brass market faces a number of challenges that can affect both prices and the overall efficiency of the recycling process. These challenges can make it difficult for sellers to obtain the best price and for recyclers to process scrap brass efficiently.

Dealing with Contaminated Brass Scrap

One of the most significant challenges faced by brass recyclers is the presence of contaminants in scrap material. Brass that is mixed with other metals, such as steel, aluminum, or lead, requires additional processing to separate the materials. This can increase the cost of recycling, and as a result, contaminated brass is often worth less than clean brass.

Leaded brass, while easier to machine, is particularly problematic because of the health risks associated with lead exposure. Scrap yards may pay less for leaded brass, and in some cases, may refuse to accept it altogether due to regulatory concerns regarding lead content.

For sellers, this means that ensuring their scrap brass is as clean and free of contaminants as possible is critical to obtaining the best price. Separating different types of metals and removing any plastic or rubber components can help increase the value of the material.

Fluctuating Scrap Prices and Their Impact on Sellers

The price of scrap brass can fluctuate significantly due to global and local economic factors, as well as changes in supply and demand. Sellers often face uncertainty regarding when to sell their scrap brass to maximize profit. Prices may be high one month and drop sharply the next, leaving sellers in a difficult position.

Recyclers and scrap metal dealers also face challenges in pricing, as they must balance the need to purchase brass at a competitive rate while factoring in the cost of processing the material. They also need to account for market volatility, which can make it difficult to predict when prices will rise or fall.

For individual sellers, understanding the market trends and being patient may sometimes be necessary to ensure they get the best return for their scrap brass. Keeping track of commodity prices, especially copper and zinc, can provide valuable insights into when the market is favorable for selling.

Environmental and Regulatory Concerns

The scrap metal industry is heavily regulated to ensure that materials like brass are processed in a safe and environmentally responsible manner. Stricter environmental regulations on the recycling of metals, particularly those with hazardous components such as lead, can make it more difficult for recyclers to handle certain types of brass scrap.

These regulations may result in increased processing costs, which can in turn affect the price offered to sellers. However, the environmental benefits of these regulations are significant, as they help ensure that the recycling process does not contribute to pollution or other environmental damage.

8. The Future of Scrap Brass in Canada

The scrap brass market in Canada is expected to evolve in the coming years, influenced by advancements in technology, shifts in global markets, and increased emphasis on sustainability. Several key trends are likely to shape the future of scrap brass recycling and its role in Canada’s economy.

Innovations in Brass Recycling

Technological advancements in recycling technology will likely play a significant role in the future of scrap brass processing. New technologies that allow for more efficient sorting and separation of different metals, including brass, will help improve the quality and value of recycled materials. Innovations like automated sorting systems, advanced melting technologies, and better contamination detection methods can enhance the recycling process, reducing costs and improving yields.

The Role of Technology in Scrap Brass Processing

Emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are already beginning to make their way into recycling facilities, helping improve efficiency in processing and sorting materials. AI can be used to identify the most valuable scrap metals, including brass, and ensure that they are separated from other materials before being sent for further processing.

Moreover, AI can help predict price fluctuations by analyzing market trends and demand forecasts. This could give both sellers and recyclers a better understanding of when it is the right time to buy or sell scrap brass, helping to stabilize the market.

The Growing Importance of Circular Economy Principles

Canada, along with many other countries, is increasingly adopting circular economy principles, which focus on minimizing waste and maximizing the reuse of materials. Brass is a perfect example of a material that fits well within this model, as it can be endlessly recycled without degradation in quality.

The Canadian government has placed increasing emphasis on supporting sustainable practices and recycling initiatives, providing incentives and funding for green technology. This shift is expected to lead to more robust and efficient brass recycling systems, further promoting the use of recycled brass in a variety of industries.


Scrap brass plays an integral role in Canada’s recycling industry, offering both economic and environmental benefits. Understanding the factors that influence scrap brass prices, how to sell scrap brass, and the challenges in the market is essential for individuals and businesses looking to get the most out of their recycled materials. As Canada continues to focus on sustainability and the circular economy, the recycling of brass will remain a vital part of the country’s resource management and waste reduction efforts. By embracing new technologies and promoting responsible recycling practices, Canada will continue to benefit from the valuable contributions of recycled brass for years to come.