Copper vs. Aluminum Scrap: What’s the Difference? النحاس مقابل الألمنيوم: ما الفرق؟

For every scrap seller and scrap buyer, understanding the fundamental differences between copper scrap and aluminum scrap is not just technical knowledge—it is the key to profitability. At , we process thousands of tons of non-ferrous scrap every year, and we consistently see scrap sellers leaving money on the table because they confuse these two metals or fail to grade them properly. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every aspect of copper scrap and aluminum scrap: from physical properties and common sources to pricing, preparation, and the best strategies for selling to professional scrap buyers.

1. Basic Physical and Chemical Properties: Why Copper and Aluminum Are Different

1.1 Density and Weight

Copper scrap is dense—approximately 8.96 g/cm³. A cubic meter of pure copper weighs nearly nine metric tons. Aluminum scrap, by contrast, has a density of only 2.70 g/cm³, making it about one‑third the weight of copper. This difference has profound implications for both scrap sellers and scrap buyers. A truckload of aluminum scrap contains far fewer kilograms than the same volume of copper scrap, affecting transportation economics and per‑load revenue.

1.2 Electrical and Thermal Conductivity

Copper scrap is the gold standard for electrical conductivity (second only to silver). This is why copper scrap from wiring and cables commands premium prices. Aluminum scrap has about 60% of the conductivity of copper but is much lighter, making it the preferred choice for overhead power lines and large‑busbar applications. Scrap buyers pay accordingly: high‑conductivity copper scrap is always valued higher than aluminum scrap.

1.3 Corrosion Resistance

Both metals form protective oxide layers, but aluminum scrap is more reactive and its oxide layer is extremely hard and insulating. Copper scrap develops the characteristic green patina (verdigris) that actually protects the underlying metal. This difference affects how each type of scrap metal should be stored and processed.

1.4 Melting Points

Copper scrap melts at 1085°C, while aluminum scrap melts at only 660°C. This lower melting point makes aluminum scrap cheaper and faster to recycle, but also means it can be contaminated more easily by other metals with higher melting points.

2. Types and Grades of Copper Scrap and Aluminum Scrap

2.1 Copper Scrap Grades (ISRI Specifications)

Professional scrap buyers use the ISRI (Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries) code system to classify copper scrap. The most common grades are:

• BARELY/BIRCH: #1 bare bright copper wire – uncoated, unalloyed, clean, and at least 99.9% copper. This is the highest paying copper scrap grade.
• BERRY/CLIFF: #1 copper wire and #2 copper wire – includes tinned, coated, or slightly contaminated wire.
• COBRA: #1 heavy copper solids – clean pipes, sheets, and busbars.
• DREAM: Light copper – thin gauge, oxidized, or with minor attachments.
• DRUID: Copper turnings and borings.

for current pricing and acceptance criteria.

2.2 Aluminum Scrap Grades

Aluminum scrap is even more diverse, with dozens of alloys. Key grades include:

• TALD: Mixed aluminum castings – primarily from automotive and industrial castings.
• TASS/TAKE: Aluminum sheet and extrusions – clean, painted, or anodized.
• TABL: Aluminum lithographic sheets – high‑purity, used for printing plates.
• TREAD: Aluminum turnings and borings.
• TWIST: Aluminum wire and cable.

at ScrapPro.

2.3 Other Related Non‑Ferrous Scrap

While focusing on copper and aluminum, serious scrap sellers also deal with (which contains lead and other metals). Each has its own market dynamics.

3. Pricing Differences: Why Copper Scrap Commands a Premium

3.1 LME and COMEX Benchmarks

Global prices for copper scrap and aluminum scrap are set on the London Metal Exchange (LME) and COMEX. As of April 2025, LME copper is approximately $9,200 per metric ton, while LME aluminum is around $2,400 per metric ton. These benchmark prices flow directly down to the scrap buyer and ultimately to the scrap seller. However, because aluminum scrap is less dense and more energy‑intensive to handle, the spread between primary and secondary aluminum is often narrower than for copper.

3.2 Factors That Influence Scrap Prices

• Purity and contamination: Clean, sorted copper scrap can achieve 95‑98% of the LME price. Contaminated or mixed copper scrap is heavily discounted.
• Form and preparation: Baled, briquetted, or shredded material commands higher prices than loose, tangled scrap.
• Volume and consistency: Scrap sellers who deliver regular, predictable quantities often negotiate better terms with scrap buyers.
• Location and logistics: ScrapPro offers free pickup throughout Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam, eliminating transportation costs for our scrap sellers.

4. Applications: Where Copper and Aluminum Scrap End Up

4.1 End Uses for Recycled Copper Scrap

Copper scrap is primarily consumed by tube mills, wire rod producers, and foundries. Recycled copper is indistinguishable from primary copper and is used in electrical wiring, plumbing tubes, roofing, and industrial machinery. Saudi Arabia’s growing construction and renewable energy sectors are driving strong demand for copper scrap.

4.2 End Uses for Recycled Aluminum Scrap

Aluminum scrap feeds extrusion presses, rolling mills, and die‑casting operations. Window frames, automotive parts, beverage cans, and aerospace components all contain significant recycled content. Scrap buyers who specialize in aluminum scrap supply the growing aluminum industry in the Gulf region, including the GCC’s largest smelters.

5. How Scrap Sellers Can Maximize Value from Copper and Aluminum

5.1 Proper Sorting and Segregation

The single most profitable action a scrap seller can take is to keep copper scrap separate from aluminum scrap. Even small amounts of aluminum mixed with copper will cause a downgrade. Use dedicated bins, train your staff, and consider investing in a portable XRF analyzer for rapid alloy identification.

5.2 Stripping Insulation from Copper Wire

Insulated copper scrap (wire and cable) sells at a discount because the scrap buyer must pay for removal and disposal of the insulation. Stripping the wire increases its value by 20‑40%. For large volumes, mechanical strippers pay for themselves in weeks.

5.3 Removing Steel and Other Contaminants

Both copper scrap and aluminum scrap are often contaminated with steel fasteners, brass fittings, or lead solder. A few minutes with a magnet and a pry bar can move your material from a "mixed" category to a premium grade.

5.4 Building Volume and Consistency

Scrap buyers value reliable supply. A scrap seller who delivers 1 ton of clean copper scrap every week is more valuable than one who delivers 5 tons sporadically. Establish a schedule with your scrap buyer and stick to it. At , we offer volume‑based incentives and loyalty bonuses.

6. How Copper and Aluminum Scrap Are Recycled

6.1 Copper Scrap Recycling

Copper scrap is shredded, sorted, and then melted in a furnace. Impurities are removed through fluxing and electrolytic refining. The resulting copper cathodes are 99.99% pure and are re‑drawn into wire or rolled into sheet. .

6.2 Aluminum Scrap Recycling

Aluminum scrap is processed in reverberatory or rotary furnaces. Because aluminum oxidizes easily, salt fluxes are used to protect the melt. The molten aluminum is cast into ingots, billets, or sow. for detailed specifications.

7. Environmental Benefits of Recycling Copper and Aluminum

Recycling copper scrap saves 80‑85% of the energy required to produce primary copper. Recycling aluminum scrap saves a staggering 95% of the energy. For every ton of aluminum scrap recycled, you avoid 9 tons of CO₂ emissions. Scrap sellers who work with ScrapPro are directly contributing to Saudi Arabia’s goal of reducing carbon emissions under Vision 2030. Learn more about our sustainability initiatives.

8. Common Mistakes Scrap Sellers Make with Copper and Aluminum

• Confusing copper with brass: Brass is yellow, copper is reddish. Check our brass identification guide.
• Mixing aluminum and copper cables: Always separate them before delivery.
• Leaving steel attachments: A simple magnet can save you 10‑20% in deductions.
• Not checking current prices: LME prices change daily. Call us for today's rate.

9. Conclusion: Know Your Metal, Maximize Your Profit

The difference between copper scrap and aluminum scrap is more than just color and weight—it is a difference in market value, processing requirements, and end‑use applications. Professional scrap sellers who invest time in learning these distinctions consistently earn higher returns. Professional scrap buyers who communicate clearly and fairly build loyal supplier bases. At ScrapPro, we are committed to educating the Saudi scrap industry and providing transparent, competitive pricing for every grade of copper scrap, aluminum scrap, and all other non-ferrous scrap. Contact us today to turn your scrap into revenue.

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