Wondering how to identify tungsten scrap? The easiest way is to check for weight, color, magnetic properties, and spark behavior. Tungsten is a dense, gray, and usually non-magnetic metal that doesn’t spark much when ground.

If you’re handling industrial scrap and aren’t sure what you have, use the checklist below to see if it could be tungsten or tungsten carbide.

Quick ID Checklist

Here are the most reliable ways to identify tungsten scrap:

• Heavy weight for its size
  • Tungsten has a very high density—over 19 g/cm³—making it noticeably heavier than steel or other metals of the same size.
• Non-magnetic
  • Pure tungsten and most tungsten carbide alloys are not magnetic. If a magnet doesn’t stick, that’s a good sign.
• Gray metallic look
  • Tungsten has a dull, grayish finish that may resemble lead or cemented carbide tools.
• Few sparks when ground
  • Compared to steel, tungsten and tungsten carbide give off very little spark when touched to a grinding wheel.
• Scratches glass
  • Tungsten is extremely hard—on par with sapphire—so it can scratch glass or ceramics.

Common Sources of Tungsten Scrap

Tungsten and tungsten carbide are widely used in manufacturing, aerospace, and electronics. Common forms of tungsten scrap include:

• Broken carbide inserts or end mills
• Aerospace components
• Electronics and semiconductor scrap
• Dies, punches, and wear parts from manufacturing

If you work in a machine shop, aerospace facility, or electronics recycling business, you likely have tungsten or tungsten carbide scrap and may not even know it.

Quick At-Home Tests for Tungsten Scrap

• Magnet test: If the item is heavy and non-magnetic, it could be tungsten.
• Spark test: Grind the edge and look for minimal sparks.
• Scratch test: Try lightly scratching glass with the material.

Not Sure? We Can Help

At RRCarbide, we specialize in buying scrap tungsten and tungsten carbide nationwide. If you’re not 100% sure what material you have:

Text us a photo or send a message — we’ll help you identify it quickly.