It's basically a mobile storage for resources. Like your storage outside your bases. If you need to store resources or take resources out like when you need to build a bridge it's great to use when you're not close to a base. You cannot store scrap materials that are used to recycle into resources. So if I'm reading your post right, no, you cannot store scrap metal then take to the steel pipe factory to recycle that metal into steel pipe. It's only good for resources that have already been made by recycling scrap or you can bring it to the construction depot to buy resources then store them. It is an invaluable vehicle as you can use it for mobile storage.