Copper Scrap Metal Recycling
What is Copper?
Copper is a ductile metal with high electrical and thermal conductivity. Pure copper is very soft and malleable. Because of these properties, it is used in various metal alloys such as brass.
Unlike other metals, when copper slowly reacts to oxygen it generates a layer of brown-black copper oxide that actually protects the copper underneath from more extensive corrosion. A green layer of copper carbonate can often be seen on old copper constructions such as the Statue of Liberty.
Where would I find Copper Scrap Metal?
Copper is used extensively in the electrical and architectural fields. Due to this every home will have a significant volume of copper hidden within walls and electrical equipment. Places you would be likely to find copper would be:
- Electrical Wiring
- Communications Cabling
- Radiator Cores
- Electric Motors
- Electrical Equipment
- Gutters & Downpipes
- Expansion Joints
- + Much More
Why should I scrap my Copper?
Although copper is a very common metal on earth, only a fraction of this is viable to be mined with current prices and technology. It is estimated that the current available reserves may only last another 25 – 60 years. Because of this, recycling is a major source of copper in modern times and will be essential in our ability to continue to utilize this metal in the future.
Like Aluminum, copper is 100% recyclable without any loss of quality. Although the process is roughly similar to that which is used to extract copper, it requires fewer steps and uses around 15% of the energy required to mine fresh copper.
What is the price of Copper Scrap Metal?
The price of Copper will depend on the purity of the metal and if it is covered with insulation. Demand is high and because of this, pure copper can be worth over $7 per KG in its pure state.
At the other end of the scale, copper elements are only worth 70c which shows the large variation in pricing pending the purity of the metal.
How do I know what my scrap copper is worth?
As with most other metals, the easiest way is to bring it in so the team can evaluate, weigh and price the copper you have available. The team are experienced in processing copper and the best bet for an accurate quote on its value.
To give an indication of Copper prices, please visit the Scrap Metal Pricing guide
Get in touch!
Petone Scrap Yard
- 04-568-8300
- 027-589-9914
- ingots1@xtra.co.nz
- 2 Port Road, Seaview
Levin Scrap Yard
- 06-367-5959
- 027-445-4725
- ingots1@xtra.co.nz
- 27 Totara St, Levin
Scrap Metal Pick up