Nickel Alloy vs Stainless Steel Scrap Prices in Melbourne
Compare nickel alloy vs stainless steel scrap prices in Melbourne. Discover which metal offers higher returns, bulk value, and eco-friendly recycling solutions.
If you're in Melbourne's construction, manufacturing, or industrial sectors, chances are you deal with a lot of scrap metal. Two of the most common — and valuable — are stainless steel and nickel alloys.
But here's the question many businesses ask: When it comes to selling, how do nickel alloy vs stainless steel scrap prices in Melbourne really compare? or Which is worth more—nickel alloy or stainless steel scrap?
While both metals play a crucial role in manufacturing, construction, and heavy industries across Melbourne, and both hold significant recycling value. But when it comes to scrap prices, the two metals are not equal.
And the answer lies in the metals themselves — their composition, demand, and recyclability. Let's break it down.
Current Scrap Prices – Nickel Alloy vs Stainless Steel
| Metal Type | Average Scrap Price (per kg) | Notes on Value |
|---|---|---|
| Nickel Alloys (Inconel, Monel, Hastelloy) | $6.50 – $12.00 | Premium due to high nickel content & demand in aerospace/energy industries |
| Stainless Steel 304 | $1.20 – $1.70 | Common grade, widely used in kitchens & pipes |
| Stainless Steel 316 | $1.50 – $2.20 | Premium stainless grade with added corrosion resistance |
| Mixed Stainless Steel Scrap | $0.80 – $1.20 | Lower quality, mixed content |
Prices are indicative and fluctuate daily. For accurate rates, please contact us.
Why Nickel Alloys Are More Valuable?
Nickel alloys are specialty metals designed for strength, heat resistance, and durability. They're heavily used in aerospace, power generation, and chemical processing industries. Since nickel itself is a high-demand, expensive metal, alloys containing it carry a premium price.
For Melbourne businesses, recycling nickel alloys not only ensures maximum financial returns but also supports the circular economy by reducing the demand for freshly mined nickel.
Nickel alloys consistently fetch higher prices because:
- High Nickel Content – Pure nickel is an expensive and in-demand metal.
- Specialized Uses – Industries like aerospace, marine, and chemical processing rely heavily on alloys such as Inconel and Monel.
- Lower Supply – Nickel alloys are less common than stainless steel, which boosts their scrap value.
For large-scale industrial sellers in Melbourne, nickel alloy scrap is a high-return material.
Why Stainless Steel Is Still in High Demand?
While stainless steel doesn't command the same per-kilo value as nickel alloys, it remains one of the most widely recycled metals in Melbourne.
- Versatile Applications – Found in construction, kitchens, medical equipment, and manufacturing.
- High Volume Availability – Businesses often have stainless steel offcuts or obsolete equipment in bulk.
- Sustainability Benefits – Recycling stainless steel reduces environmental impact while still generating steady cash flow.
While Stainless steel has its own benefits, you also have to understand their types:
- 304 Stainless Steel (Standard Grade): Lower nickel content, widely used, lower price.
- 316 Stainless Steel (Marine Grade): Higher nickel and molybdenum, fetches more.
In short, stainless steel scrap may bring in less per kilogram, but the volume adds up quickly.
Which Should You Recycle First?
The answer depends on your scrap inventory:
- High-value items (nickel alloys): Prioritize sorting and selling separately to maximize profits.
- Bulk materials (stainless steel): Even at lower per-kilo prices, the volume makes it worthwhile.
At Noble Metal Recycling, we recommend keeping these two metals separate. This ensures you get the best possible price for each category.
Which Metal Should Businesses Recycle First?
The answer depends on your industry:
- Factories, Aerospace, Marine, Energy Plants → Focus on nickel alloy recycling for higher profit per kilo.
- Construction, Kitchens, Warehouses, Workshops → Stainless steel recycling offers consistent returns, especially in bulk.
Most Melbourne businesses benefit from recycling both — nickel alloys for premium rates and stainless steel for reliable, high-volume revenue.
How This Links to Other Valuable Metals?
Recycling doesn't stop with nickel alloys or stainless steel. Aluminum is another highly recyclable and profitable material. Unlike some metals, aluminum can be recycled indefinitely while saving 95% of energy compared to raw production.
Learn more in our guide on Aluminum Recycling in Melbourne – Turning Waste into Value.
Why Choose Noble Metal Recycling for Scrap Recycling in Melbourne?
- Competitive Prices – Always aligned with current market trends.
- On-Site Collection – Safe and efficient pickup across Melbourne.
- Sustainable Practices – Helping businesses achieve green goals.
- Industrial-Scale Solutions – Tailored for commercial and industrial sectors.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is nickel alloy scrap more expensive than stainless steel scrap?
Nickel alloys contain a higher percentage of nickel, a premium-priced element, while stainless steel has less nickel and more iron, which is less valuable.
2. How do I know if my scrap is nickel alloy or stainless steel?
Our experts at Noble Metal Recycling can help test and identify the exact grade of your scrap to ensure you get the correct price.
3. Do scrap prices for nickel alloy and stainless steel change often?
Yes. Prices fluctuate based on global demand, currency exchange, and supply. It's always best to check the daily rates before selling.
Nickel Alloy vs Stainless Steel Scrap Prices in Melbourne
When comparing nickel alloy vs stainless steel scrap prices in Melbourne, nickel alloys typically deliver higher per-kilo rates, while stainless steel offers reliable returns in bulk.
Both metals are valuable, recyclable, and essential to Melbourne's industrial economy. By recycling with us, you don't just unlock profit — you support a cleaner, more sustainable future.
Get the Best Scrap Metal Prices in Melbourne Today
Contact us today to get a free quote or schedule a scrap collection. Whether you have nickel alloys, stainless steel, or other metals, we offer competitive rates and professional service.