If you’re a full-time scrapper, contractor, or machinist, chances are you’ve encountered carbide scrap. Often found in drill bits, cutting tools, and industrial machinery, scrap carbide is a highly valuable metal thanks to its extreme hardness, high tungsten content, and market demand.
This guide covers everything from identifying carbide to finding it and selling it for the best price.
What Is Carbide and Why Is It Valuable?
Carbide typically refers to tungsten carbide, a dense, durable metal that combines tungsten and carbon. This gray material is incredibly hard, making it ideal for:
- Cutting tools
- Mining and drilling equipment
- Aerospace components
- Surgical and dental tools
- Jewelry (especially men’s rings)
Its high tungsten content makes it valuable on the scrap market, often ranging between $5 to $10+ per pound, depending on purity.
How to Identify Scrap Carbide
Knowing how to spot scrap carbide can make a big difference in your earnings. Here are a few tips:
- Weight: It’s noticeably heavier than steel — closer to lead or gold in feel.
- Markings: Many drill bits or cutting tips are stamped with “CARBIDE.”
- Spark Test: When ground, carbide emits compact orange sparks, unlike the long white sparks from steel.
- Magnetism: Less magnetic than regular steel.
Where to Find Scrap Carbide
If you’re wondering where to source this high-value material, here are your best bets:
- Machine Shops: These are gold mines for carbide scrap. Drill bits, lathe inserts, and cutting tools wear out quickly and are often thrown away.
- Construction & Demolition Sites: Look for carbide-tipped boring tools or blades used for cutting and drilling.
- Aerospace & Aviation: Aircraft equipment sometimes contains carbide parts due to their heat resistance. Connect with local mechanics or hangar staff.
- Medical & Dental Clinics: Though harder to access, dental and surgical tools sometimes use carbide. Inquire about expired or damaged tools.
- Jewelry Scraps: Tungsten carbide is popular in jewelry, especially men’s wedding bands. Occasionally, these find their way into scrap.
How Much Is Scrap Carbide Worth?
Scrap carbide prices vary widely. Factors include:
- Tungsten content (ranges from 10–100%)
- Purity and form (e.g., solid vs. sludge or powder)
- Current market demand
Estimated Range: $5 to $10+ per pound
Tip: Ask your yard if they use an XRF analyzer to determine the exact tungsten content.
Where to Sell Scrap Carbide Near You
Where to Sell Scrap Carbide Near You
- The iScrap App helps you find local scrap yards that accept carbide and check reported prices in real time. Just enter your ZIP code and search for “carbide” to see options near you.
Want To Ship It? Try RRCarbide
If your local yard doesn’t buy carbide or offers a low rate, RRCarbide (iScrap’s sister company) buys scrap carbide nationwide. Here’s what they offer:
- Free shipping boxes
- Instant quotes
- Transparent pricing
- Fast payments
Get a Quote Today
Turn Your Carbide Scrap Into Cash
Carbide scrap is one of the most valuable items in your recycling bin — but only if you know how to sell it properly. With the iScrap App to help find local yards and RRCarbide offering national buying and shipping, you’re set up to make the most out of every pound.
