Importance of copper Wire recycling
Copper is one of the most used types of metal particularly since it has a recyclable life. Copper is derived from natural resources and has consistently been mined for centuries. Due to Wire recycling, most of the copper used in production and manufacturing of products are derived from recycled copper scrap instead of newly mined ore. Recycled copper is more commercially feasible because it normally retains at least 95% of the value of the primary metal that is mined from the ore. Besides the economic advantage of recycling, the amounts of copper wires that are dumped into landfills are drastically reduced. People get paid to recycle their copper wires. Since there is high demand for copper, about $3 to $4 dollars can be generated from every pound of copper.
The safe process of Wire recycling
There is certainly a market for Wire recycling but the insulation has to be removed before the copper wire is processed. Insulation is safely removed through a mechanical process wherein the insulation covering the copper wires are cut into strips. In some instances, insulation is removed through an approved incineration process. Approved incineration is different from burning insulation in an open fire where the desired temperature is not reached. During the approved process, insulation is not only removed but all the contaminants present on the material are eliminated so that a better quality of copper is obtained. Burning insulation through an open fire is not suggested because it releases hazardous fumes to the environment that can be detrimental to those with respiratory problems. Contaminants remain on ground after burning and there is a high possibility for the contaminants to be carried to distant areas during a heavy rainfall. Contaminants also lower the value of recycled copper
Aside from copper, wires contain other metals but while they are not dangerous, fumes resulting from burning through an open fire can be hazardous. When fumes are generated, health hazards must be controlled. Recycled scrap must be free from contamination in order to successfully produce high quality of copper. When scrap has been contaminated, it has to undergo another process called refining so that the composition can be adjusted to acceptable specifications. It is also essential for the purity of copper to be maintained for critical electrical applications. Commercial supplies of pure copper must ensure high conductivity, consistent malleability and freedom from breakage during the production process.
When choosing a Wire recycling company, it makes sense to look for one with safe processes in the removal of insulation and contaminants so that the environment stays safe.