Classification Standards for Japans Scrap Iron and Steel
Scrap iron and steel are by-products of a variety of industrial activities. In Japan, scrap iron and steel is classified according to its source. The classification system for scrap iron and steel has been developed by the Ministry of Economic, Trade and Industry (METI), in cooperation with the Japan Iron and Steel Fed-eration (JISF).
METIs regulations are divided into four parts. Part I covers the classification of iron and steel scrap by source. Part II specifies the method used to mix different grades of material. Part III outlines the requirements used to test and grade iron and steel scrap. Part IV covers the regulations concerning import and export of iron and steel scrap.
Part I specifies the four broad categories of iron and steel scrap collected in Japan. These are (1) salvaged items, (2) return items, (3) industrial items, and (4) commercial items. The salvaged items include essential household items, obsolete machinery and equipment, ships, oil tankers, vehicles, and demolished buildings. The return items refer to the scrap iron and steel generated from the same process or operation again and again. Examples of industrial items are magnetite and slag generated from steel mills, and sand and gravel from quarries. The commercial items consist of scrap iron and steel used in other industries, such as auto and machinery parts, plumbing goods, and recyclable metals.
METIs part II of the regulations outlines the method used for mixing different grades of iron and steel scrap. When mixing scrap iron and steel, it is important to maintain the grade consistency. This is done by ensuring that the scrap iron and steel used has the same grade or grade range. Furthermore, to prevent the formation of buildup or clogs, the iron and steel scrap particles must be of similar size.
Part III of the iron and steel scrap classification system specifies the requirements used to test and grade scrap iron and steel. In Japan, a number of tests are used to determine the grade of scrap iron and steel. These tests include the unit weight test and the Farrer test. The unit weight test is used to determine the weight of scrap iron and steel particles, while the Farrer test is used to check the quality of materials. Additionally, other tests and criteria, such as chromium content and Mko-type magnet tests, are also used for grading.
Part IV covers the regulations concerning import and export of iron and steel scrap. For scrap iron and steel imported from other countries, METI requires that the material be sampled and tested for its purity and grade. Furthermore, material imported from countries that are party to the Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movement of Hazardous Wastes and their Disposal must meet Japans domestic environmental standards.
In conclusion, METIs classification system for scrap iron and steel has been developed in cooperation with the Japan Iron and Steel Federation. This system, which is divided into four parts, specifies the categories of scrap iron and steel as well as the requirements used to test and grade it. Import and export regulations for scrap iron and steel are also included. Through this classification system, METI and the JISF strive to ensure the quality and safety of scrap iron and steel traded in Japan.
