Copper Scrap

Copper Scrap Guide: Types of Copper, Properties, and Uses

Copper, one of the most valuable metals in the recycling sector, is the lifeblood of modern industry thanks to its high electrical and thermal conductivity. Recycling copper is of great importance for a sustainable future in terms of conserving natural resources and saving energy.

So, what type of copper do you have, and how is its recycling value determined? In this article, we will discuss… types of copper scrap And we detail their critical roles in the world of recycling.

Why is scrap copper so valuable?

Copper, without losing any of its quality or conductivity properties. 100% recyclable. Instead of extracting new copper from mines, processing scrap copper, Up to 85% energy savings. This high productivity and strong industrial demand keep the value of copper at its peak in the scrap market.

Types and Characteristics of Copper Scrap

Copper scrap is categorized according to its purity level, treatments (painted, burned, oxide), and physical form.

1. Stripped Copper Scrap (Copper Bar)

It is the most valuable, purest, and highest-priced group in the scrap market. It is usually obtained by mechanically stripping the outer plastic of thick-section power cables.

• Features: It has a bright, reddish color; it is free from burns, dyes, or oxidation. It is the group with the highest purity level.

• Area of ​​Use: Manufacturing of electrical panels, transformers, and new cables requiring high conductivity.

2. Mixed Copper Scrap

It is a mixture of copper pieces in various forms, resulting from household use or minor renovations.

• Features: It may contain soldered pieces, old kitchen utensils, or small pieces of wire. Its purity level is somewhat lower compared to stripped copper.

• Area of ​​Use: Plumbing systems, decorative items, and general manufacturing processes.

3. Burnt Copper Scrap

It is a metal obtained by (improperly) burning the copper inside cables in an attempt to separate it from the plastic sheath.

• Features: Its color has darkened due to exposure to high temperatures, and it has developed metal fatigue.

• Important Warning: Due to its environmental damage and degrading effect on metal quality, modern methods are now used instead of “incineration”. crushing machines is preferred.

4. Pipe Copper Scrap

It specifically covers piping used in the air conditioning, heating, and cooling sectors.

• Features: It is obtained from air conditioning pipes and radiator parts. It is usually clean, but may have welding residue or joints.

• Area of ​​Use: Manufacturing of air conditioning systems and copper pipes.

5. 98% Copper Granules (Crushed Copper)

These are rice-grain-sized copper particles obtained by shredding end-of-life cables in recycling facilities (granulation machines).

• Features: It is of stripped copper quality but physically comes in small pieces. It is relatively easy to melt, transport, and dose.

• Area of ​​Use: Metal alloy production, precision foundries, and industrial melting furnaces.

Factors Determining the Price of Scrap Copper

To maximize your profit when selling copper scrap, you should follow these three criteria:

• Purity (Grade) Ratio: The less impurities (plastic, iron, solder, tin) copper contains, the higher its economic value.

• Oxidation Status: If the copper’s surface is greened or blackened, it may affect the price because it requires an additional cleaning process.

• LME Index: Copper prices on a global scale London Metal Exchange (LME) It is based on data. Daily exchange rate fluctuations directly affect scrap metal prices.

In summary

Copper scrap is not just waste, it is a strategic raw material. Properly classified and cleaned copper scrap provides high profits for the seller and makes a significant contribution to the national economy.

MD Metal Note: Stripping copper cables by burning them reduces the metal quality and releases toxic gases into the environment. We process your scrap metal using mechanical methods in our professional facilities, ensuring the highest possible price.

Your current copper scrap prices are… LME prices You can contact us to get feedback and support from our expert team.