Hello, New apprentice blacksmith here.
I work in an engineered wood mill (LVL and OSB mill) that is being built. I noticed the litteral tons of metal that was thrown away and asked my boss if I could salvage some of it. Is answer was: If its in the thrash, take it. I dont know much about steel grade and how to see the difference between them so I was wondering if you guys could give me a general idea of what is worth taking.
What is thrown away range from steel plate (very thin to half inch thick), steel cable, square tube, pipes, rebar, railing, nuts, bolts, tools, I beam, aluminium wire rack, etc
I know that rebar is good to practice on, but not so good for knife making. I also know that galvanised steel create Dangerous fume when heated so i watch out for that. I Don't have any power tool to cut and preshape bigger pieces. As of now my experience is basically shaping some railway spike I found. I havent tried actually making something. I'm just asking so i can keep an eye out in the next months as i get better.
Thanks a lot for your help!