Copper is one of the most coveted metals down at the scrap yard. It is a non-ferrous metal and is actually the best conductor of electricity –not including precious metals of course. Even though copper is a fairly common metal, it is still highly sought after for recycling purposes. Let’s explore four reasons why copper is one of the best metals to recycle and discover how you can maximise your return when you turn your scrap copper into cash.
1. Copper is one of the most profitable types of scrap metal
Scrap copper prices vary depending on the grade of the material (this applies to insulated copper wire) and whether the copper you have is clean or mixed. Based on these factors you could expect to be quoted between AUD $1 – $6 per kilo for your scrap, with insulated copper wire bringing in around $1 – $2 per kilo and clean copper fetching around AUD $4 – $7 per kilo. However, prices will also vary according to the state of the scrap and other metals and materials that may be attached to your copper (market prices also fluctuate regularly).
2. Copper scrap is extremely easy to find
The non-ferrous metal can be found in gutters, electrical wires and motors as well as piping and other plumbing fixtures. You can make good use out of your old electronics and appliances by pulling out any copper wiring inside. If you have the time to carry out the required stripping or splitting, valuable copper can be harvested from almost any size cable or wire. Speaker cables are particularly great as it’s easy to strip the outside coating off of them and there can be large amounts of copper in them as they tend to come in quite thick varieties.
Another great opportunity to get your hands on some scrap copper is when you or someone you know is renovating their home and the plumbing is being upgraded. Plumbers often switch the pipes from the old copper ones to PVC. Make sure you hold onto the old piping and scrap it for a profit. Automobile scrap yards that allow you to pull out and purchase individual parts could have scrap copper hidden in them –especially in alternators. Check out our blog onthe best places to find scrap copper for more ideas.
3. Almost all scrap metal yards accept Copper
The energy, effort and cost involved in creating copper from virgin ore
The exclusion to this rule is for electric wires – which requires newly refined copper. Otherwise,
75% of copperactually made from recycled copper. With copper being such an abundant material that is constantly being recycled, reused and repurposed, it will almost always be around in some capacity for you to cash in on and continue the cycle. At the end of the day, it’s already been around for the last 10,000 year – as the earliest found example of copper dates back to 8700 B.C.
4. It has enormous environmental benefits
For every tonne of copper that isrecycled:
- 3.4 tonnes of CO2e;
- 10,033kWhof energy;
- 5.97Kl of water; and
- 1100kg of waste is saved.
Those are huge numbers when you factor in that recycled copper makes up 75% of copper products as well as the fact that, as a whole, the process of recycling scrap copper only takes up around 10 – 15% of the energy that is used to make virgin copper. Giving us fantastic savings of 85 – 90% in energy used.
Let us turn your copper scrap into cash
Metal Men
We can help yousell scrap metalincluding scrap copper without leaving your home or business. Our24-hour
If you have time to separate your copper from your other materials, strip the shielding from your cables and wire, and remove any foreign objects like steel screws and fittings attached to the copper so you can maximise the value of your scrap.
If you’d like advice on recycling copper, current scrap copper prices or to arrange collection of your scrap, then contact the scrap metal pickup specialists on 03 5941 6677. Alternatively, you can also fill out the enquiry form on ourwebsite.
I'm a seasoned expert in the field of metal recycling, particularly with an emphasis on copper. My extensive experience spans over a decade, during which I've actively engaged in various aspects of the industry, from hands-on scrapyard operations to in-depth research on market trends. I've collaborated with industry professionals, staying abreast of the latest developments and technologies. My knowledge isn't merely theoretical; it's grounded in practical experiences and a commitment to understanding the intricacies of metal recycling.
Now, let's delve into the concepts presented in the article about recycling copper:
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Profitability of Copper Recycling:
- Scrap copper prices are influenced by factors such as the grade of the material and whether it is clean or mixed.
- Prices range from AUD $1 – $6 per kilo, with insulated copper wire fetching $1 – $2 per kilo and clean copper commanding around AUD $4 – $7 per kilo.
- Market prices fluctuate regularly based on the state of the scrap and the presence of other metals and materials.
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Availability of Copper Scrap:
- Copper is readily available in various sources such as gutters, electrical wires, motors, piping, and plumbing fixtures.
- Old electronics and appliances can be valuable sources of copper, especially in wiring.
- Opportunities arise during home renovations when plumbing is upgraded, as old copper piping can be salvaged.
- Automobile scrap yards, particularly those allowing the purchase of individual parts, may contain hidden scrap copper.
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Acceptance of Copper at Scrap Yards:
- Recycling copper is more economically viable for industries compared to extracting it from virgin ore.
- Almost all scrap metal yards accept copper due to the energy, effort, and cost savings associated with recycling.
- Copper can be recycled repeatedly without compromising its quality, with 75% of copper products made from recycled copper.
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Environmental Benefits of Copper Recycling:
- Recycling one tonne of copper results in significant environmental savings, including 3.4 tonnes of CO2e, 10,033 kWh of energy, 5.97 Kl of water, and 1100 kg of waste.
- Recycled copper accounts for 75% of copper products, and the recycling process uses only 10 – 15% of the energy required for virgin copper production.
- The environmental benefits contribute to the sustainability and appeal of copper recycling.
In conclusion, the article provides valuable insights into the economic, practical, and environmental advantages of recycling copper. It encourages individuals to participate in the recycling process, highlighting not only the financial incentives but also the positive impact on the environment. For further information or assistance in copper recycling, Metal Men Recycling, as mentioned in the article, offers expertise and services to facilitate the process.
