Global Scrap Trading: HMS 1 & HMS 2 Industrial Specifications

In the ferrous recycling sector, HMS (Heavy Melting Steel) is the primary feedstock for induction furnaces and Electric Arc Furnaces (EAF). WorldwideTradeX supplies verified scrap grades compliant with ISRI standards, ensuring high yield and minimal chemical impurities for melt shops globally.

HMS 1 (ISRI 200-202): Premium Heavy Scrap
HMS 2 (ISRI 203-206): Industrial Blend
The "80/20" Mix: Commercial Balance
Technical Specifications Table

1. HMS 1: High-Purity Heavy Melting Steel

HMS 1 is the high-density substrate required for premium steel production.

Dimensionality: Minimum 1/4 inch thickness. Maximum charging box size of 60x24x24 inches.

Key Distinction: Strictly non-galvanized and non-alloyed steel.

Melt Yield: Typically results in 90-95% efficiency.

2. HMS 2: Standard Secondary Scrap

HMS 2 allows for lighter gauge material and galvanized components.

Dimensionality: Minimum 1/8 inch thickness.

Inclusion Rule: May include galvanized or black steel (e.g., automotive shells, structural piping).

Yield Dynamics: Slightly lower than HMS 1 due to the zinc coating and thinner profile.

3. HMS 80:20 Mix: The Industry Standard

The most widely traded commodity in the bulk scrap market is the 80:20 blend.

Composition: 80% HMS 1 and 20% HMS 2 by volume.

Commercial Logic: This ratio provides a balance between high-yield performance and cost-effectiveness for mass-market steel bar production.

4. Technical Specifications: Scrap Hub

Category	Specification / ISRI Code	Standard Yield
HMS 1	200 - 202 (No Galvanized)	90 - 95%
HMS 2	203 - 206 (Galvanized OK)	85 - 90%
HMS 1/2	80:20 Industry Ratio	88 - 93%
Prohibited	Sealed Vessels / Munitions	0% Tolerance

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is HMS 1&2 scrap and how is it graded?

HMS (Heavy Melting Steel) is classified as HMS 1 (clean, uncoated steel scrap, minimum 6mm thickness) and HMS 2 (includes lighter gauge and some coated material). The standard trading ratio is 80:20 (HMS1:HMS2). It is the most traded ferrous scrap grade globally, priced against Turkey CFR as the benchmark.

Why is Turkey the benchmark market for HMS scrap pricing?

Turkey is the world's largest importer of ferrous scrap, primarily for its electric arc furnace (EAF) steel mills. CFR Turkey (Iskenderun/Aliaga) is the global reference price for HMS 1&2. Prices are published weekly by Platts and Fastmarkets.

What are the key quality parameters buyers check in HMS scrap?

Buyers inspect: yield (metallic recovery percentage), contamination level (non-metallic content below 0.5%), size compliance (max 1.5m length), and absence of prohibited materials (radioactive material, explosives, sealed containers). SGS or equivalent pre-shipment inspection is mandatory.

What vessel sizes are used for HMS scrap bulk shipments?

Handysize (25,000–40,000 DWT) and Handymax (40,000–60,000 DWT) vessels are standard for scrap. Panamax vessels are used for larger volumes. Loading is done via crane and grab at origin ports (Rotterdam, Ghent, US Gulf, UK ports).