Stop Tossing Money in the Scrap Bin
If you’re tossing used carbide inserts into the scrap bin without a second thought, you could be throwing away more than just metal — you’re leaving real money on the table.
CNC inserts wear out fast in high-production environments. While they’re a small part of your overall tooling setup, over time, they pile up. The good news? Those dull, worn, or broken inserts still hold value — especially when they’re made from carbide or cobalt alloys.
Here’s what to do with old CNC inserts to turn your scrap into cash and keep your shop running smarter.
Can you recycle CNC inserts?
RRCarbide specializes in buying scrap carbide inserts — and we make the process fast and easy. Whether you’re sending 20 lbs or 200, we accept bulk shipments and provide quick quotes so you know exactly what your material is worth.
Our team works with machine shops and manufacturers across the country to help them streamline their recycling process and get paid faster for their scrap inserts.
Separate by Type for Better Value
Want to get the best return? Don’t toss everything into the same bin.
- Uncoated carbide inserts typically bring in more than coated or steel-backed ones.
- Cobalt-alloy inserts have a different value than tungsten-based carbide.
- Mixing materials can lower the price of your entire lot.
Taking a few extra minutes to separate inserts by type can increase the payout significantly.
Avoid Mixing with Steel or Contaminants
If your inserts are tossed in with steel turnings or general scrap, their value drops — sometimes to zero. Keep carbide inserts clean and dry, and store them in a separate container to preserve their resale value.
What Are Used Inserts Worth?
While market pricing fluctuates, here’s a ballpark of what we’re currently paying (as of this writing):
- Carbide inserts: $6.70/lb
- Cobalt-alloy inserts: $1.50-$5.00/lb
Want an exact quote? We’re happy to provide one — just send us a few photos or a weight estimate.
Ready to Turn Your Old Inserts Into Cash?
Don’t let valuable material sit around or get lost in the scrap bin. We’ll guide you through a simple shipping process, so you can get paid fast.