And Is It Magnetic? Here’s What Scrappers Need to Know
Stainless steel is one of the most common alloys you’ll encounter in scrapping — but it also causes a lot of confusion. Is it ferrous or non-ferrous? And is stainless steel magnetic?
Quick Answer: Stainless steel is technically a ferrous metal because it contains iron. However, many types are non-magnetic, and in the scrap world, stainless steel is often handled more like non-ferrous material due to its resistance to rust and higher resale value.
Below, we’ll break down the science, the scrapping realities, and tips to help you sort, sell, and get top dollar for your stainless steel scrap.
What Makes a Metal Ferrous or Non-Ferrous?
To understand stainless steel’s classification, let’s first define these terms:
- Ferrous Metals
- Contain iron as a primary element
- Magnetic (usually)
- Prone to rust or corrosion
- Common examples: #1 and #2 steel, cast iron, HMS, carbon steel
- Non-Ferrous Metals
- Contain little to no iron
- Non-magnetic
- Corrosion-resistant
- Typically higher in value
- Common examples: copper, brass, aluminum, bronze, nickel
So where does stainless steel fit?
It contains iron (making it technically ferrous), but it also includes chromium, nickel, and sometimes molybdenum — which dramatically improve corrosion resistance and reduce or eliminate magnetic properties.
Is Stainless Steel Magnetic?
The answer depends on the type (or grade) of stainless steel. Here’s how it breaks down:
Non-Magnetic Stainless (Austenitic)
These are the most common grades you’ll see in scrap, and they’re typically non-magnetic:
- 304 Stainless Steel – Found in kitchenware, exhaust systems, machine shop scrap
- 316 Stainless Steel – Common in food prep equipment, marine hardware
- 310, 321 – Used in furnaces, aerospace, and high-heat environments
These types fall into the 300 series, known for:
- High corrosion resistance
- Chromium and nickel content
- Low or no magnetic reaction (can be weakly magnetic if cold-worked)
Magnetic Stainless Steel
These grades have less nickel and more iron, making them magnetic:
- Ferritic Stainless – Found in dishwashers, sinks, induction cookware
- Martensitic Stainless (e.g., 410) – Found in knives, utensils, tools
Pro tip: Use a magnet to test scrap stainless steel. If it sticks, it might be ferritic or martensitic and generally less valuable than 304 or 316.
Why Stainless Steel Is Ferrous (But Treated Like Non-Ferrous in Scrapping)
- It contains iron → textbook definition of ferrous
- It resists rust → unlike most ferrous metals
- Often non-magnetic → typical of non-ferrous
- Scrap yards often separate it → listed and priced individually
At the yard: Stainless steel is usually weighed and paid out separately from ferrous materials. Yards may even group it with non-ferrous pricing, especially for 304 and 316 grades due to their nickel value.
Stainless Steel Scrap Value & Selling Tips
Factors That Affect Stainless Steel Scrap Price:
- Grade of stainless (304, 316, 410, etc.)
- Nickel content – more nickel = higher value
- Cleanliness – remove other metals or attachments
- Magnetism – non-magnetic types often bring higher rates
Where to Find Stainless Steel Scrap
Looking for high-value stainless scrap? Check these spots:
- Kitchens – sinks, appliances, countertops, cookware
Hospitals – trays, carts, equipment (check regulations)
Construction/Renovation – pool ladders, railings, outdoor fixtures
Machine shops – drop cuts, exhaust systems, tubing
Find Scrap Stainless Steel Prices with the iScrap App
If you’re looking to scrap stainless steel, the iScrap App is your go-to tool for finding the best prices at local scrap yards. With real-time price updates, you can compare rates for different grades of stainless steel, including non-magnetic varieties like 304 and 316, which often fetch higher prices. The app also helps you locate nearby scrap yards that accept stainless steel and other metals, ensuring you get the best deal possible.
