junkyard

Junkyard, also called scrap yard or salvage yard, is a facility where end-of-life vehicles, machinery, and other discarded items are collected, stored, and processed for parts, recycling, or disposal. Junkyards may be independently owned or part of larger recycling networks. They can specialize in automobile salvage, industrial equipment, or general scrap metal.

Operations involve sorting inventory, removing usable parts for resale, draining fluids, and ensuring safety. Working parts such as engines, transmissions, body panels, and electronics may be resold to consumers or repair shops. Non-reusable material is recycled, with metal typically sent to smelters. Some yards crush, bale, or shred components to reduce space and facilitate recycling.

Junkyards contribute to waste reduction and lower consumer part costs by providing affordable replacements. They are subject to environmental and safety regulations concerning hazardous fluids, batteries, refrigerants, and soil contamination. Proper handling and disposal procedures are essential to minimize pollution.

Terminology varies: 'junkyard' is common colloquial term; 'salvage yard' or 'scrap yard' are widely used in industry and advertising. The concept dates to the early automotive era, when discarded vehicles and machinery were repurposed rather than disposed of.