Segment Information Segment Assets Reconciliation to Consolidated (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 30, 2013		Aug. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	$ 1,392,119		$ 1,405,512
Investments in joint venture partnerships	14,530		14,808
Metals Recycling Business [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Investments in joint venture partnerships	15,000		15,000
Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	2,007,085		2,006,461
Operating Segments [Member] | Metals Recycling Business [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	1,327,490	[1]	1,316,202	[1]
Operating Segments [Member] | Auto Parts Business [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	348,392		359,977
Operating Segments [Member] | Steel Manufacturing Business [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	331,203		330,282
Corporate and Eliminations [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	$ (614,966)		$ (600,949)

[1] MRB total assets include $15 million as of November 30, 2013 and August 31, 2013 for investments in joint venture partnerships.