A web jam detector and associated method are provided for detecting a jam of feedstock material in a scrap chopper. A web detection bar, mounted to the scrap chopper, includes a plurality of web detection fingers. The plurality of web detection fingers are made of an electrically conductive material, are electrically connected to and extend outwardly from the web detection bar, and are positioned to contact the feedstock material when the scrap chopper is in a closed position. A web jam detection circuit is electrically connected to the web detection bar. In operation, the web jam detection circuit supplies direct current electricity to the web detection bar and generates feedback signals based on a voltage of the web detection bar. The feedback signals are indicative of the presence or absence of the feedstock material at the plurality of web detection fingers.