Stainless Steel Scrap Prices UK
Current UK stainless steel scrap prices for 316, 304, and mixed grades. Priced against the LME nickel benchmark and updated daily.
Quick Answer
UK stainless steel scrap prices in April 2026: 316 stainless (marine grade) pays £0.60–1.00/kg, 304 stainless (18/8) pays £0.40–0.70/kg, and mixed stainless pays £0.25–0.45/kg. Stainless steel scrap prices are driven by the LME nickel price, not the CFR Turkey benchmark used for ferrous steel. The higher the nickel content in the grade, the more valuable the scrap.
Stainless Steel Grades
| Grade | Price / kg |
|---|---|
316 Stainless Marine Grade | £0.589 |
304 Stainless 18/8 Stainless | £0.637 |
Mixed Stainless Turnings, Mixed | £0.775 |
What Drives Stainless Steel Scrap Prices in the UK?
Stainless steel scrap is valued for its nickel and chromium content. Unlike ferrous steel (which tracks the CFR Turkey benchmark), stainless steel prices are driven by the LME nickel price. When nickel rises on the London Metal Exchange, stainless scrap prices follow.
316 stainless (marine grade) contains 10-14% nickel and 2-3% molybdenum, making it the most valuable common stainless grade. It's found in marine fittings, chemical equipment, and surgical instruments.
304 stainless (18/8) is the most widely used stainless steel. Kitchen sinks, food processing equipment, and architectural trim are typically 304. It contains 8-10.5% nickel.
Mixed stainless includes turnings, swarf, and unsorted stainless items. It trades at a discount because the yard must sort and identify the grades before processing.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much is stainless steel scrap worth per kg?
316 stainless steel (marine grade) typically commands the highest price at £0.60–1.00/kg. 304 stainless (the most common grade) usually fetches £0.40–0.70/kg. Mixed or unidentified stainless trades for less. Prices depend on nickel content and LME nickel prices.
What is the difference between 304 and 316 stainless steel?
304 stainless (also called 18/8) contains approximately 18% chromium and 8% nickel. 316 stainless (marine grade) adds 2-3% molybdenum for superior corrosion resistance, especially against salt water. The higher molybdenum and nickel content makes 316 more valuable as scrap.
How can I identify stainless steel for scrapping?
Stainless steel is non-magnetic (with some exceptions for work-hardened 304). It won't rust like mild steel. Use a magnet test first: if the magnet doesn't stick, it's likely stainless. For grade identification, professional yards use XRF analysers. The grade significantly affects the price, so sorting before selling is worthwhile.