Aluminium Grades Explained: UBC, Extrusion, Taint/Tabor & More
26 June 2026Aluminium is our speciality, and it's one of the most varied metals to grade. Knowing the main grades helps you sort smarter and get paid more.
The common grades
- UBC — used beverage cans, loose or baled
- Extrusion (6063) — clean window/door section, a top grade
- Taint/tabor — painted or coated sheet, low copper
- Litho — clean printing plate
- Cast — wheels, gearboxes and LM grades
- Turnings — machining swarf, drained of oil
Why sorting pays
Clean, single-grade aluminium such as extrusion or litho pays well above mixed or coated material. Attachments — steel, plastic, rubber or thermal breaks — drop the grade, so removing them where practical lifts your price.
Related: learn more on our Aluminium Scrap page.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is taint/tabor?
Painted or coated aluminium sheet and clippings with low copper content and few attachments — a common fabrication grade priced below clean extrusion.
Is aluminium magnetic?
No. If a magnet sticks, the item is steel or has steel attached, which affects grading.
Do you buy aluminium turnings?
Yes — drained of coolant or oil where possible for the best rate.
