Lead Scrap: Sourcing, Types, and Buyer's Guide for 2025
Lead scrap is a valuable raw material widely used in industries like battery manufacturing, construction, and automotive. With increasing demand for recycled materials, sourcing high-quality lead scrap has become crucial for businesses. This guide explores how to find reliable suppliers, types of lead scrap, and key buyer considerations.
How to Find Reliable Lead Scrap from China in 2025
China remains a top exporter of lead scrap, offering competitive prices and large quantities. To find trustworthy suppliers:
- Check certifications like ISO 9001 and environmental compliance
- Verify supplier history and customer reviews
- Request samples before bulk orders
- Consider trade assurance programs from platforms like Alibaba
Leading Chinese manufacturers often provide lead scrap with 99.9% purity at $1,800-$2,200 per metric ton (2024 market data).
What Buyers Should Know Before Buying Lead Scrap from China
Key considerations when importing lead scrap:
- Shipping costs and logistics (FOB vs CIF pricing)
- Import regulations in your country
- Moisture content and contamination levels
- Payment terms (30% deposit common)
Case Study: A European battery manufacturer reduced costs by 18% switching to Chinese lead scrap suppliers with verified quality controls.
Types of Lead Scrap
Common varieties include:
- Battery lead (most common, 60% of market)
- Cable lead sheathing
- Pipe and sheet lead
- Lead alloys (with antimony or tin)
Each type has different purity levels (typically 96-99.9%) and applications.
Functions and features of Lead Scrap
Key characteristics:
- High density (11.34 g/cm³)
- Excellent corrosion resistance
- Low melting point (327.5°C)
- Radiation shielding properties
These properties make recycled lead ideal for batteries (75% of usage), radiation protection, and construction materials.
Scenarios of Lead Scrap
Primary applications:
- Battery manufacturing (automotive, industrial)
- Radiation shielding in medical facilities
- Construction (roofing, flashing)
- Ballast and weights
The global lead-acid battery market is projected to reach $84.5 billion by 2027, driving scrap demand.
How to Choose Lead Scrap
Selection criteria:
- Determine required purity level
- Check for oxidation (affects melting efficiency)
- Verify moisture content (<1% ideal)
- Compare supplier track records
Tip: For battery production, seek lead scrap with minimal antimony content (under 2%).
Lead Scrap Q & A
Q: What's the current price trend for lead scrap?
A: Prices fluctuate with LME rates, currently $0.90-$1.10/lb (2024), with Chinese exports often 5-8% below global averages.
Q: How is lead scrap typically shipped?
A: Most exports use 20ft or 40ft containers, with 25-28 metric tons per container being standard.
Q: What documents should I request from suppliers?
A: Essential documents include Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), Certificate of Analysis, and Bill of Lading.
Q: Can lead scrap be recycled indefinitely?
A: Yes, lead maintains its properties through infinite recycling cycles, making it highly sustainable.
Q: What's the minimum order quantity from Chinese suppliers?
A: MOQs typically start at 20 metric tons for bulk orders, though some suppliers offer smaller trial shipments.
