How to Scrap Aluminum Tanks and Brass Valves Safely
"I have a bunch of empty aluminum cylinders with brass valves. Safe to remove the valves? What's the best way to sell them?"
Yes, you can remove brass valves from empty aluminum cylinders — but CONFIRM they are completely empty first. Use an adjustable wrench to slowly back the valve counter-clockwise. The aluminum body pays $0.50–$0.80/lb. The brass valve pays $1.80–$2.50/lb. The brass is actually the most valuable part by weight.
Aluminum cylinders with brass valves are common in industrial, medical, and food service settings. They're worth good money — but only if you handle them safely and separate the components correctly. Here's the complete guide.
Safety First — Confirm the Tank is Empty
Never use an impact tool, hammer, or power tool to remove a valve from a pressurized cylinder. Even a 'used' cylinder can retain residual pressure. To confirm empty: open the valve fully and listen for any gas release. If you hear nothing and the valve turns freely, it's empty. For cylinders that held hazardous gases (acetylene, propane, oxygen), have them professionally purged before dismantling.
How to Remove Brass Valves
Use an adjustable wrench or pipe wrench. Turn counter-clockwise (standard right-hand thread on most cylinders). Apply steady pressure — don't jerk. If the valve is stuck, a penetrating oil and a longer wrench handle will provide more torque. Once the valve is off, the cylinder is open and the yard will accept it.
Aluminum Cylinder Prices
Small non-refillable aluminum cylinders (CO2, N2O, compressed air): $0.50–$0.80/lb. Large industrial aluminum cylinders (oxygen, nitrogen, argon): $0.60–$0.90/lb. Aluminum scuba tanks: $0.60–$0.80/lb. Note: some yards require cylinders to be cut open before acceptance to prove they're empty.
Brass Valve Prices
Brass valves from cylinders pay $1.80–$2.50/lb as Yellow Brass. A single brass valve weighs 0.5–2 lbs depending on size. On a load of 50 cylinders, the brass valves alone can be worth $45–$250 — often more than the aluminum bodies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to remove valves from aluminum cylinders?
Yes, if the cylinder is completely empty. Confirm by opening the valve and listening for gas. Never use impact tools on pressurized cylinders.
What do aluminum cylinders pay at the scrap yard?
Aluminum cylinders pay $0.50–$0.90/lb depending on size and type. Some yards require cylinders to be cut open to prove they're empty.
What is brass worth per pound?
Yellow brass (like valve bodies) pays $1.80–$2.50/lb. Red brass pays $2.00–$2.80/lb.
Do you buy aluminum cylinders and brass valves?
Yes. We buy both separately for maximum value. Call (754) 310-2984 for commercial quantities.