Segment Information Segment Revenue Reconciliation to Consolidated (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2013	Nov. 30, 2012
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 587,745	$ 592,820
Metals Recycling Business [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	440,558	447,206
Auto Parts Business [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	59,064	53,585
Steel Manufacturing Business [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	88,123	92,029
Operating Segments [Member] | Metals Recycling Business [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	490,309	494,461
Operating Segments [Member] | Auto Parts Business [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	79,635	69,555
Less: Intersegment revenues | Metals Recycling Business [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	(49,751)	(47,255)
Less: Intersegment revenues | Auto Parts Business [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	$ (20,571)	$ (15,970)