Railroads are the backbone of American industry. 170,000 miles of track crisscross the country from coast to coast, moving two billion tons of freight nationally every year. But nothing lasts forever, and that includes a couple of 180-ton locomotives. Their engine technology is inefficient so theyre headed for the scrap dealer where theyll be cut down and cannibalized. Any salvageable parts must come out intact for resale, while leftover metals like steel and copper will be cut up, melted down, and ultimately reformed into new products. In this business, nothing goes to waste. Get an inside look at the unknown world of scrap, where locomotives go to dieand be reborn.
