One of the most valuable recyclable metals in the world, copper is used in motors, plumbing pipes, electrical wiring, and even household appliances. Because it can be recycled indefinitely without losing its purity, it is both profitable and environmentally friendly.
For Perth homeowners, electricians, and contractors, recycling copper means turning old materials into real value. At Universal Scrap Metal in Cannington, we make that
Step-by-Step: How Copper Recycling Works (From Wire to Cash)
Copper recycling is a well-organised system that transforms everyday waste into reusable raw material. Here’s how your copper travels from scrap to cash.
1. Collection & Sorting
Customers bring in copper items like:
- Electrical wiring and extension cords
- Plumbing pipes and off-cuts
- Roof flashing or sheets
- Motors and radiators
At Universal Scrap Metal, our team weighs and grades each batch of copper. Sorting ensures pure metal is separated from mixed or coated materials, which helps you get the most accurate value.
2. Stripping & Preparation
Before melting, copper is stripped of insulation or coatings:
- Manual stripping for small wire bundles
- Machine stripping for large commercial quantities
Clean, bare copper (known as Bright & Shiny) typically achieves the highest return. Stripping removes plastic insulation, allowing the copper to be processed efficiently.
💡 Quick Fact:
A kilogram of insulated wire may contain only about 60% pure copper once stripped — so clean metal always weighs and pays better.
3. Shredding & Melting
After cleaning:
- Copper is shredded into small fragments.
- It’s melted in a furnace at temperatures above 1,000°C.
- Impurities are removed, leaving nearly pure molten copper.
This process consumes up to 85% less energy than mining new copper, making it an eco-friendly alternative to traditional metal extraction.
4. Refining & Reuse
The molten copper is poured into molds to form ingots or rods, which are then distributed to manufacturers in industries such as:
- Electrical cable production
- Construction and plumbing
- Renewable energy (solar & wind wiring)
Real-life example:
A Perth plumber may bring copper offcuts from a renovation project to a local scrap yard. Within weeks, that same copper might be reused in solar power infrastructure — demonstrating how recycling directly fuels sustainable innovation.
5. Payment: Turning Scrap into Instant Cash
Once sorted and weighed, you’re paid on the spot based on the latest global market rates.
Universal Scrap Metal uses real-time price monitoring, ensuring you always receive fair, transparent payments for your material.
Copper Grades and Market Value
While we don’t publish fixed prices (they change daily), understanding copper grades helps you estimate potential returns.
| Copper Type | Description | Typical Value Range |
| Bright & Shiny Copper | Clean, uncoated wire or pipe | Premium market rate |
| #1 Copper | Slightly tarnished but clean metal | High market rate |
| #2 Copper | Painted, soldered, or lightly contaminated | Moderate market rate |
| Insulated Copper Wire | Plastic-coated electrical wiring | Lower rate depending on purity |
📞 Tip: To find out the latest copper rate in Perth, contact Universal Scrap Metal directly — we’ll provide current market updates and advice before you bring your load.
Environmental & Economic Benefits
Recycling copper offers massive sustainability benefits alongside financial rewards.
Environmental advantages:
- Uses up to 90% less energy than mining new ore
- Reduces air and water pollution
- Keeps valuable materials out of landfill
- Conserves Australia’s natural copper reserves
Economic benefits:
- Supports Perth’s local recycling industry
- Creates green jobs in Western Australia
- Helps businesses reduce disposal costs
Did you know?
Recycling just one tonne of copper saves enough energy to power an average Australian home for almost six months!
Tips to Maximise Your Return
Follow these quick tips before visiting your local scrap yard:
- Separate pure copper from mixed metals
- Remove screws, fittings, and insulation
- Keep wires dry and free of oil or paint
- Sort by grade to save time during weighing
- Bring ID — it’s required under WA scrap metal laws
Pro tip: Check prices on the day you plan to sell. Copper values often rise and fall with global commodity markets.
Why Perth Chooses Universal Scrap Metal
- Conveniently located at 46 Hogarth Street, Cannington
- Fair and transparent weighing systems
- Same-day payment by cash or transfer
- Licensed and environmentally responsible
- Trusted by tradies, contractors, and local businesses across WA
FAQs About Copper Recycling in Perth
1. How often do copper prices change?
Prices fluctuate daily depending on global metal markets, supply, and demand.
2. Can I sell copper with insulation or fittings attached?
Yes, we accept all types. However, clean and stripped copper earns higher returns.
3. Do I need to book an appointment to sell scrap?
No bookings needed — just drop by during operating hours with your ID.
4. Is there a minimum amount required?
No minimum quantity. We accept everything from small batches to commercial loads.
5. Do you offer pick-up or bin services for large sites?
Yes! We provide collection and skip bin options for ongoing commercial clients around Perth.
Final Thoughts
Copper recycling is one of the smartest ways to protect the environment while earning extra income. By bringing your scrap copper to Universal Scrap Metal, you’re contributing to a cleaner Perth — and getting rewarded for it.
👉 Visit Universal Scrap Metal in Cannington today and turn your copper wire into cash — the responsible, profitable way