Scrap Iron Prices UK
Today's UK scrap iron prices per kg. Cast iron (BMRA Grade 10), cast borings (Grade 11), and clean auto cast from engine blocks and brake discs.
Iron Scrap Prices Per Kg
| Grade | Low | Avg | High | Sources |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cast Iron | £0.22 | £0.23 | £0.24 | Low (2) |
| Cast Iron Borings | — | — | — | Awaiting data |
| Auto Cast (Engine Blocks) | — | — | — | Awaiting data |
Prices updated 2026-05-02. Based on data from up to 2 UK scrap yards.
Iron Scrap Calculator
Scrap Metal Value Calculator
Prices are indicative estimates. Actual prices vary by yard, region, and metal condition. Always confirm with your local scrap yard.
Scrap Iron Price Per Kg UK
UK iron scrap prices typically range from 40–70% of the ferrous scrap index (the CFR Turkey benchmark used as a proxy for UK gate prices). Cast iron commands a premium over light steel because it has predictable chemistry and high density — foundries prize it for casting new iron components.
Iron prices are usually quoted per tonne, not per kg, because the volumes involved are large. A radiator might weigh 30–50kg; a car engine block 80–150kg. You generally need at least 100kg of cast iron to make a yard trip worthwhile.
Understanding Cast Iron Scrap Grades
Cast Iron (BMRA Grade 10, Light Cast) is the standard consumer grade, covering old radiators, drainage pipes, Victorian columns, manhole covers, and heavy domestic iron. It must be free of stove plates and “burnt” iron (oxidised by fire).
Cast Borings (Grade 11) are the fine shavings and chips from machining cast iron parts. These are typically oily and may be sold compressed into briquettes. Yards pay less because of the processing required to remove oil and any steel contamination.
Auto Cast (Engine Blocks) is a higher-value sub-grade covering car engine blocks, cylinder heads, and brake discs. Clean auto cast commands a premium because the chemistry is consistent. Strip all non-ferrous parts — aluminium heads, copper wiring, steel brackets — before selling, or it gets downgraded to mixed grade.
1 Kg Iron Rate Today
Per-kg iron rates in the UK currently sit in the £0.15–£0.40 range depending on grade and region. Cast iron from radiators or pipes is at the higher end; mixed light ferrous and oily borings are at the lower end. Use the calculator above for an estimate based on current ferrous benchmarks.
Iron vs Steel: What's the Difference?
Iron is the base element; steel is iron alloyed with carbon (and sometimes other metals like manganese, chromium, or nickel). Cast iron has a higher carbon content (2–4%) than steel (under 2%), making it harder and more brittle. In the scrap trade they are graded separately because foundries melt them differently. See our steel scrap prices page for steel grades (HMS 1, HMS 2, Light Iron, P&S).
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is cast iron worth per kg in the UK?
Cast iron is worth roughly £0.15–£0.40 per kg depending on grade. Clean auto cast (engine blocks, brake discs) is at the high end at 55–70% of the ferrous scrap index. General Grade 10 cast iron (radiators, drainage pipes) sits at 50–65%. Oily cast borings from machining are the lowest at 40–55%.
What’s the difference between cast iron and steel scrap?
Cast iron has a higher carbon content (2–4%) than steel (under 2%), making it harder and more brittle. Foundries melt them differently and grade them separately. Cast iron typically commands a premium over light steel because of its predictable chemistry and density — it’s prized for casting new iron components.
Are car brake discs valuable as scrap?
Yes — brake discs are pure cast iron with consistent chemistry, so most UK yards pay a premium for them. A typical car brake disc weighs 4–8kg. You’d need several to make a worthwhile trip, but they’re easy to identify and clean, with no non-ferrous contamination.
How much are old cast iron radiators worth?
Old cast iron radiators are graded as BMRA Grade 10 (Light Cast) — typically £0.20–£0.30 per kg as scrap. A standard 6-section Victorian radiator weighs around 40–60kg, so a single rad might fetch £10–£15 at a scrap yard. Many radiators are worth more on architectural salvage markets if they’re intact and undamaged.