
Turn Aluminum Breakage into Clean Shredded Aluminum
Share
Aluminum breakage, as defined by ISRI (Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries), consists of aluminum with miscellaneous contaminants such as iron, dirt, plastic, and other non-metallic materials.
This material can be sold based on aluminum recovery or content as agreed upon by the buyer and seller. ISRI notes that breakage must contain a minimum of 33% aluminum unless otherwise specified.
What Is Aluminum Breakage?
Aluminum breakage includes contaminated or attached aluminum—typically from auto or demolition scrap. With the right tools, this low-grade material can be transformed into clean, high-value shredded cast aluminum and separated steel scrap.
Examples of Aluminum Breakage
- Engine blocks
- Transmissions
- Aluminum siding with nails or caulk
- Painted or greasy auto parts
How to Process Breakage into Clean Aluminum
Using the Wolf 9500 shredder in combination with the EcoHog THM ECS 2000 eddy current separator, we turn contaminated aluminum breakage into clean, marketable aluminum and steel.
Watch the Process in Action
Shredding engine and transmission breakage:
Another angle from the same job site:
Close-up of shredded aluminum breakage on the conveyor belt:
The Role of the EcoHog Eddy Current Separator
This material is now liberated and ready for value recovery using the EcoHog THM ECS: a track-mounted, self-contained eddy current separator.
It features:
- A large shaker table for material distribution
- A cascading drum magnet to remove ferrous metals
- An Eriez eddy current for optimal aluminum recovery

By combining the Wolf 9500 and EcoHog ECS, you can unlock the full value of your aluminum breakage. Additional equipment like cross-belt magnets, windshifters, and drum magnets can further enhance recovery and efficiency.
Get More from Your Scrap
Contact Process Equipment today to learn how we can help you increase your scrap recovery value.
Call us at 425-401-2000 or fill out the form below to get started.