Copper Recycling

A valuable and widely recycled nonferrous metal

Scrap copper wire prepared for recycling

Understanding Copper Scrap Grades & Forms

Copper is valued for its durability and conductivity, making it essential across construction, electrical, and industrial applications—and ideal for recycling. Radius makes copper recycling reliable and accessible. Whether you’re selling copper from a home cleanout, renovation, or commercial project, our facilities help individuals and businesses recycle copper responsibly and efficiently.

Copper scrap with clean, unalloyed copper rods

#1 Copper

Clean, unalloyed copper with minimal impurities

Mixed copper scrap containing impurities such as solder and oxidation

#2 Copper

Contains impurities like solder, paint, or oil. It can appear dirty or corroded

Bare bright copper wire scrap recycling

Bare Bright

Unalloyed and uncoated wire that is bright, shiny, and free from tarnish or oxidation

Common Sources of Copper Scrap

Whether you're clearing out old wiring or managing a demolition project, Radius provides a reliable solution for copper recycling.

Insulated Wire & Cable

Plumbing Pipes & Fittings

Roofing Materials

IElectric Motors

Coils from Appliances

Electrical Components

Ready to recycle your copper?

Contact our team or visit a radius facility near you to get started.

Radius yards accept copper scrap in multiple grades and forms, including #1, #2 and bare bright. Common sources of copper scrap include:

  • → Insulated wire and cable
  • → Electric motors
  • → Plumbing pipes and fittings
  • → Coils from appliances
  • → Roofing materials
  • → Electrical components

Copper grades indicate purity and condition. #1 copper is clean, uncoated, and unalloyed, while #2 copper may have slight corrosion, solder, or coatings.

It depends on scrap and market conditions. #1 copper scrap is generally cleaner and easier to recycle compared to #2 copper.

Radius accepts copper cable wires, whether insulated or bare.

No. Radius accepts both insulated and bare copper wires. While stripped copper may be classified as a higher grade, our facilities can accept insulated wire and sort it appropriately for recycling.

Bright, uncoated copper is usually #1 grade, while tarnished or soldered copper is #2 grade. Bring it to one of our facilities—we’ll help identify it.

Most states require a valid government-issued ID and compliance with local scrap metal laws. Radius will guide you through the process.

Yes, but copper with dirt or paint is classified as a lower grade, which may impact pricing.

We follow state regulations, which often require payment by check or electronic transfer instead of cash.