What is Copper Scrap? Understanding the Types, Benefits and Recycling Processes

Introduction

Copper scrap, often referred to as scrap copper, is a highly valuable material that is no longer in use for its original purpose. This comprehensive guide will answer the question “Copper scrap, what is it?”. In addition, we will delve into its types, benefits and recycling process, providing valuable insights for both individuals and businesses.

What is Copper Scrap?

Copper scrap, what is it? Copper scrap refers to discarded copper material that you can recycle. This includes copper cable, plumbing pipes and more. Known for its excellent conductivity and malleability, copper remains valuable even when repurposed.

Types of Copper Scrap

Understanding the various types of copper scrap is crucial for maximizing its value. The primary types include:

Bright Copper

• Description: This is the most valuable type of copper scrap, consisting of clean, unalloyed and uncoated copper. It has 99.9% copper content and is often bright and shiny.

• Common Sources: You can often find Bright Copper in electrical wiring or cables.

Grade 1 Copper

• Description: This type of copper scrap includes clean, unalloyed and uncoated copper that may have slight tarnish. It must be at least 1/16^th of an inch in diameter.

• Common Sources: You can commonly find Grade 1 Copper in the form of bus bars or copper tubing that shows few signs of corrosion and has fittings removed.

Grade 2 Copper

• Description: Copper pipes and wires that someone has soldered or painted. They must be free of insulation and thinner than 1/16^th of an inch with at least 94% copper content.

• Common Sources: Grade 2 copper is commonly found in different construction materials.

Light Copper

• Description: Light Copper is the least valuable type of copper scrap. It is often tarnished or painted. They must have between 88 and 92% copper content.

• Common Sources: Light Copper often appears in appliances like kettles or boilers that have high levels of solder or paint.

Copper Cables

Cables are a significant source of copper cable scrap. There are various types of cable that are common in a range of different industries. Here are some examples:

Steel Wired Armoured (SWA) Cable

• Description: SWA cables offer durability and resist mechanical damage, making them a common choice in outdoor and underground installations.
• Common Sources: Different electrical installations in commercial and industrial settings commonly use SWA.

Flex Cable

• Description: Flexible cables work in applications where the cable must bend or remain flexible during operation.
• Common Sources: Flex cables appear in various electrical installations in commercial and industrial settings.

Coaxial Cable

• Description: Coaxial cables are used for transmitting television signals and internet connections.
• Common Sources: Coaxial cables appear in various household appliances and commercial buildings, including broadcasting facilities.

Twin & Earth Cable

• Description: Twin and Earth cable is a common choice for domestic electrical wiring.
• Common Sources: You can commonly find Twin & Earth in various household electrical systems and lighting circuits.

Where to Find Scrap Copper

Scrap Copper can be sourced from various places including:

• Construction Sites: Leftover copper pipes, and electrical cable from different construction projects are a great source of copper scrap.
• Demolition Sites: Copper scrap from demolished buildings and infrastructure is a good source for getting waste cables or copper pipes.
• Old Electronics: Electronic devices consist of small copper wires and components. Although they won’t provide large quantities, you may have a lot of waste once you accumulate lots of broken/old devices.
• Plumbing: Plumbers will tend to have lots of waste copper pipe from old plumbing systems that have been ripped out/replaced.
• Household Items: Around your house, you may have lots of copper scrap from items such as kettles, or even broken phone chargers/cables.

Benefits of Recycling Scrap Copper

Recycling scrap copper offers significant benefits:

• Environmental Impact: Recycling reduces pollution and greenhouse gas emissions associated with mining.
• Economic Benefits: Recycling provides extra income and creates more jobs.
• Resource Conservation: Recycling conserves natural resources by reducing the need for new copper mining.

The Copper Recycling Process

1. Collection: The first step in the copper recycling process is gathering the various scraps from each source.
2. Sorting: Next, you sort the different types of materials in order to know what processes to take next.
3. Processing: This is where you carry out any action needed to get the materials to a sellable state. For example, cables need to be stripped or granulated to separate the copper from the plastic.
4. Sell to Reputable Buyers: Finally, sell the goods to reputable buyers who turn the copper into new products.

Why Choose Event Sparks Cable Recycling?

Event Sparks Cable Recycling is a premier copper cable recycling service based in Bridgwater, Somerset. Our services are exciting for companies who come into a lot of copper whether it be in pipes, cable or other forms. Additionally, it is for people who want to earn money back on it while shaping a sustainable future for the world. For instance, our bin-go service gets you regular scrap collections free of charge, a free bin for storage and competitive prices paid for the materials. We extend our services to companies as far as London, Coventry, Peterborough, and Bournemouth. Here’s why you should choose us for your copper recycling needs:

• Expertise and Experience: Our team has extensive experience in the copper recycling industry, ensuring that you receive the best possible service.
• Convenient Service: In addition, we offer convenient pickup services for your copper scrap, making the recycling process hassle-free.
• Competitive Pricing: Also, we provide competitive pricing for your copper scrap, ensuring that you get the most value for your materials.
• Environmental Responsibility: Finally, by choosing Event Sparks Cable Recycling, you contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing the need for new copper mining and lowering greenhouse gas emissions.

Get Started With Event Sparks Cable Recycling

Getting started with Event Sparks Cable Recycling is easy. Simply contact us with the service you are after and we will schedule a collection. Our team will provide you with all the necessary information and assist you throughout the process. Recycling your scrap metals has never been easier or more rewarding.

Conclusion

Recycling valuable scrap metals provides significant environmental and economic benefits. By understanding what copper scrap is, the different types and the recycling process, you can contribute to sustainability and earn extra cash! For expert copper cable recycling services, contact Event Sparks Cable Recycling today!