COPPER

Scrap copper can be found in various industries, including construction, electrical and electronics manufacturing, transportation, and telecommunications. It is commonly used in the production of wires, cables, motors, transformers, and plumbing fixtures. Additionally, it can be found in renewable energy systems, such as wind turbines and solar panels. The automotive and aerospace industries also generate scrap copper, mainly from the production of engines, heat exchangers, and hydraulic systems. The scrap copper market is diverse and dynamic, with new sources of scrap continuously emerging.

Copper is a highly ductile and malleable metal that exhibits excellent thermal and electrical conductivity. It is widely used in the production of electrical wiring, plumbing pipes, and other industrial applications due to its excellent conductivity, resistance to corrosion, and thermal stability. Copper is also a vital component in various alloys, including brass and bronze, which have diverse applications across industries.

There are different grades of copper, and each has distinct properties and applications.

Copper grades based on purity:

Electrolytic Tough Pitch (ETP) copper: This is the most common and widely used copper grade, with a purity level of over 99.90%. It has excellent conductivity and is used in electrical applications, such as wires, cables, and motors.
Oxygen-Free High Conductivity (OFHC) copper: This grade has a purity level of over 99.95% and is commonly used in high-performance electrical applications, such as in aerospace and defense industries.

Copper grades based on alloy composition:

Brass: An alloy of copper and zinc, brass has excellent machinability and is used in decorative applications, such as door handles and light fixtures.
Bronze: An alloy of copper and tin, bronze is highly resistant to corrosion and is used in the production of statues, sculptures, and musical instruments.

Copper grades based on mechanical properties:

Copper-nickel alloys: These alloys contain a small amount of nickel and have excellent resistance to corrosion and wear. They are used in marine applications, such as shipbuilding and offshore oil rigs.
Beryllium copper: This alloy contains a small amount of beryllium and has excellent strength and durability. It is used in the production of high-performance springs, electrical contacts, and tools.

Overall, the properties and applications of copper and its alloys vary based on the specific grade and composition, making it a highly versatile metal in different industries.