Scrap glossary
What is HMS (heavy melting scrap)?
HMS, or heavy melting scrap, is thick iron and steel scrap that can go straight into a steel furnace. It is the most widely traded grade of ferrous scrap in the world and the benchmark many mills use to price imported and local scrap.
HMS 1 is the cleaner, thicker grade: pieces usually at least 6 mm thick, without galvanised or coated steel. HMS 2 allows thinner and coated material, so it sells for less.
Typical HMS includes girders, angles, plates, pipes, machinery frames and cut structural steel. Thin sheet such as tins and car body panels is light iron, not HMS.
In Pakistan, local dealers often call it 'bhari loha' (heavy iron). Mills judge it by thickness, rust and how much non-metal is attached.
Selling tip: separate thick pieces from thin sheet before the buyer arrives, because a mixed pile is usually priced as the lower grade.
Related terms
Sell your scrap scrap
Post a free ad with a photo and your price. Buyers in your city call you directly. No commission.