Twelve fire engines and around 80 firefighters were called to a fire at a metal recycling unit on Landau Way in Erith.
A large pile of scrap metal was destroyed by the fire. There were no reports of any injuries.
Station manager, Daniel Slay who was at the scene said: "A mixture of scrapped cars and metal were alight.
"Firefighters worked closely with staff from the recycling plant and were able to use two onsite grabbers to pick the pile apart which helped crews access the seat of the fire.
"We monitored this very carefully to ensure site staff remained safe. It was helpful that the wind blew the smoke away from this machinery which helped visibility and safety."
The Brigade was called at 2318 and the fire was under control by 0314. Fire crews from Erith, Plumstead, East Greenwich and surrounding fire stations attended the scene.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.