Global Metal Recycling Equipment Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)

• In September 2021, At the Sonthofen site, which has undergone modernization work in the areas of recycling and environmental technology, Bhs-Sonthofen has expanded its test center and finished process resolutions for recycling technology to its test midpoint Machinery and plant engineering.

• In July 2021, In accordance with the company's strategic focus on the mining and collections businesses with Ahlström Capital, Metso Outotec has entered into a deal to separate its recycling business, which includes the waste recycling and metal recycling occupational lines.

The global metal recycling equipment market is segmented by metal type, including ferrous, non-ferrous, and alloys & composites. Ferrous metals, primarily consisting of steel and iron, dominate the market due to their widespread use in industries such as automotive, construction, and manufacturing. The non-ferrous segment, including metals like aluminum, copper, and lead, is also significant, driven by their growing demand in electronics, aerospace, and renewable energy sectors. Alloys and composites are expected to see a rise in demand as industries focus on advanced materials and lightweight solutions, contributing to a steady market growth in this category.

In terms of machine types, the global metal recycling equipment market is categorized into shredders, briquetting machines, shears, granulating machines, and others. Shredders are one of the most widely used machines, as they help reduce the size of large metal scrap and prepare it for further processing. Briquetting machines are essential in compacting metal waste into dense blocks for easier handling and transportation, while shears provide efficient cutting solutions for various metal types. Granulating machines are designed to break down larger pieces into smaller, more manageable sizes, facilitating easier recycling. Other equipment, including magnetic separators and balers, also play a role in improving operational efficiency in metal recycling processes.

By end use, the automotive sector is one of the largest consumers of metal recycling equipment, as it heavily relies on the reuse of metals like steel and aluminum for manufacturing car parts and components. The building and construction sector also plays a significant role in the market, as metal recycling helps supply the necessary materials for infrastructure projects. The shipbuilding industry is another key driver, with increasing emphasis on sustainable practices and recycling scrap metals for ship manufacturing. Equipment manufacturing, packaging, and consumer appliances further contribute to the market, as these industries require metals that are recycled for production processes and packaging materials.

Geographically, the market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Africa, and Latin America. North America and Europe are key regions for metal recycling due to stringent regulations and a strong emphasis on sustainability. Asia Pacific, however, is expected to witness the highest growth, driven by rapidly industrializing economies like China and India, which are major producers and consumers of metal recycling equipment. The Middle East and Africa, along with Latin America, also present opportunities for market growth, especially as these regions invest in infrastructure and manufacturing sectors that increasingly rely on recycled metals.

Global Metal Recycling Equipment Segment Analysis

In this report, the Global Metal Recycling Equipment Market has been segmented by Metal Type, Machine Type, End Use and Geography.

Global Metal Recycling Equipment Market, Segmentation by Metal Type

The Global Metal Recycling Equipment Market is segmented by Metal Type into Ferrous, Non-Ferrous, and Alloys & Composites.

each addressing specific recycling processes and requirements. Ferrous Metals, including steel and iron, are widely recycled due to their abundance and the high value of recycled ferrous materials. Equipment designed for ferrous metal recycling typically includes magnetic separators and shredders that efficiently process and separate iron and steel scrap for reuse in manufacturing and construction applications.

Non-Ferrous Metals, such as aluminum, copper, and zinc, require specialized recycling equipment due to their distinct properties and higher market value. Non-ferrous metals are more challenging to process but are highly sought after for their recyclability and economic benefits. Equipment for non-ferrous recycling often includes advanced sorting technologies, such as eddy current separators and X-ray fluorescence systems, to handle these materials effectively and recover valuable metals with high purity.

The segment of Alloys & Composites includes complex materials made from combinations of different metals and other elements. Recycling equipment for alloys and composites must be capable of handling varied and often intricate compositions. This segment requires sophisticated processing technologies to separate and recover valuable components from mixed materials, ensuring efficient recycling and minimal contamination. Each segment’s specialized equipment helps maximize the value of recycled materials and supports the overall sustainability of metal recycling operations.

Global Metal Recycling Equipment Market, Segmentation by Machine Type

The Global Metal Recycling Equipment Market is segmented by Machine Type into Shredders, Briquetting Machines, Shears, Granulating Machines, and Others.

Each fulfilling distinct roles in the recycling process. Shredders are used to break down large metal scrap into smaller, more manageable pieces. These machines are essential for initial processing, allowing for easier handling and further processing of metal waste. They are commonly used in the automotive and industrial sectors to process end-of-life vehicles and machinery components.

Briquetting Machines are designed to compact metal scraps into dense, manageable briquettes. This compaction process improves the efficiency of material handling and reduces storage space requirements. Briquetting machines are particularly useful in the recycling of small metal particles and turnings, which are difficult to process as loose material. By creating uniform briquettes, these machines facilitate easier transportation and integration into the recycling stream.

Shears are used for cutting large pieces of metal into smaller sections, making them easier to handle and process. These machines are critical for operations that involve cutting scrap metal into sizes suitable for further processing or melting. Granulating Machines further reduce metal scrap into small granules, which are often used in the production of new metal products or as feedstock for other recycling processes. The Others category includes various specialized equipment tailored for unique recycling needs, providing flexibility and customization to address diverse metal recycling challenges.

Global Metal Recycling Equipment Market, Segmentation by End Use

The Global Metal Recycling Equipment Market is segmented by End Use into Automotive, Building & Construction, Ship Building, Equipment Manufacturing Packaging, and Consumer Appliances.

The Global Metal Recycling Equipment Market is categorized by end use, with each sector contributing to the demand for recycling equipment in distinct ways. The automotive industry stands as a significant player, where the recycling of metals from vehicles is vital to reduce waste and conserve resources. Metal recycling equipment used in this sector is designed to handle a variety of automotive components, such as car bodies, engines, and transmission parts. The demand for efficient recycling systems is expected to grow as the automotive industry moves toward sustainability and eco-friendly practices.

The building and construction sector also plays a crucial role in the metal recycling equipment market. Metals like steel and aluminum are commonly used in construction materials, and as structures are decommissioned or renovated, the recycling of these metals becomes a necessity. The growth in construction activities, especially in emerging economies, is expected to drive the demand for advanced recycling equipment that can efficiently process large volumes of scrap metal, which can then be reused in new construction projects. Additionally, the push toward greener building practices and circular economies is likely to boost market growth in this sector.

Other key end-use sectors driving the metal recycling equipment market include shipbuilding, equipment manufacturing, packaging, and consumer appliances. The shipbuilding industry generates a significant amount of scrap metal, especially from decommissioned ships, which requires specialized recycling systems. Similarly, the demand for recycling equipment in the packaging and consumer appliance industries is increasing due to the rise in metal-based packaging materials and electronic waste. As global industries continue to seek sustainable solutions, the need for efficient and technologically advanced metal recycling equipment will remain essential across various sectors.

Global Metal Recycling Equipment Market, Segmentation by Geography

In this report, the Global Metal Recycling Equipment Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.

Global Metal Recycling Equipment Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024

The Global Metal Recycling Equipment Market is segmented geographically into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa, reflecting regional differences in recycling practices and market dynamics. North America is a significant market driven by advanced recycling infrastructure, stringent environmental regulations, and high metal recovery rates. The United States and Canada are major contributors, with investments in modern recycling technologies and strong regulatory frameworks promoting efficient metal recycling.

Europe also plays a key role in the market, characterized by a strong emphasis on sustainability and circular economy principles. European countries are known for their robust recycling systems and innovative technologies. The region's focus on reducing waste and increasing recycling rates is supported by comprehensive legislation and government incentives, which drive demand for advanced metal recycling equipment across various countries.

Asia-Pacific is the fastest-growing region, with rapid industrialization, increasing urbanization, and rising environmental awareness fueling market expansion. Countries like China, India, and Japan are major markets, investing heavily in recycling infrastructure and technology to manage growing metal waste streams. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa also contribute to the market, with emerging recycling initiatives and infrastructure development aimed at improving metal recovery rates and addressing regional waste management challenges.