The Main Differences Between Peeled and Unpeeled Copper Explained

Do you want to turn in scrap copper, but aren’t sure exactly what you have? The difference between stripped and unstripped copper determines how much you’ll receive for it. Stripped copper is pure copper wire without insulation. Unstripped copper, on the other hand, still has its plastic or rubber coating. This difference may seem small, but it significantly affects the price. At Krommenhoek Metals, you’ll get an explanation and a fair price for both types.

What is stripped copper?

Stripped copper is produced when you remove the insulation from cables. This stripping is done manually with pliers or mechanically with a cable stripper. The result is pure copper wire, also known as “millberry.” This form of copper contains no plastic, rubber, or other materials.

Characteristics of stripped copper

Stripped copper has specific properties:

Purity: nearly 100% copper
Color: reddish-brown sheen
Processability: can be melted immediately
Price: €6 to €7 per kilogram
Source: stripped electrical and data cables

Its high purity makes stripped copper valuable for recycling. Manufacturers use the material directly to make new cables and electronic components.

Applications of Stripped Copper

Recycled stripped copper is given a second life in various products. The metal industry processes it into new electrical wiring. Printed circuit boards, transformers, and components for communication devices also often contain recycled copper. The material retains its electrical properties after recycling.

What is uncoated copper?

Unstripped copper consists of cables that still have their insulation intact. Examples include old extension cords, computer data cables, or wiring from appliances. The PVC or rubber sheath is simply still attached. Many people turn in this type of copper because stripping it is time-consuming.

Characteristics of unpeeled copper

The properties differ significantly from those of stripped copper:

Composition: copper wire with insulation
Copper content: 30 to 60 percent
Disposal: requires shredding or heating
Price: €2 to €3 per kilogram
Source: installation cables, appliance cords, automotive cables

The insulation material must first be removed before the copper can be reused. This additional processing step explains the lower price.

The main differences between peeled and unpeeled copper

The difference between stripped and unstripped copper lies primarily in three aspects:

Purity: Peeled copper is nearly 100% pure, while unpeeled copper consists of 40 to 70 percent insulation material.
Price: You’ll get two to three times as much for peeled copper. Specifically, this means €6–7 per kilo for peeled copper versus €2–3 for unpeeled copper.
Processing: Shelled copper can be melted down immediately. Unshelled copper must first be fed through a cable shredder to separate the copper from the plastic.

This difference has a major impact on your earnings. Do you have time to strip the cables? Then you’ll earn more. Want to turn them in quickly? Then unpeeled copper is also welcome.

Turn in both stripped and unstripped copper to Krommenhoek Metals

At Krommenhoek Metals in Rotterdam, we accept both types. Our team will weigh your material accurately and pay you on the spot. You don't need to make an appointment for smaller quantities.

Hand-peeled copper fetches the highest price. The daily rate fluctuates but remains consistently higher than the price of unpeeled copper. Check our website for current prices, as copper prices change daily in line with the global market.

Even unstripped copper is worth money. Many homeowners have meters of cable left over from renovations. Those meters add up quickly. The advantage? You don’t have to spend hours stripping the cable first. We’ll process the material for you.

Turn in your copper at Krommenhoek Metals

Since 1925, our family-owned business has stood for fair trade and craftsmanship. With our Royal Warrant, we guarantee quality. Whether you’re an individual with old cables or a company with larger quantities, you’re welcome here.

Wondering how much your scrap is worth? Stop by our location in Rotterdam or contact us. We’ll professionally evaluate your materials, pay you immediately, and recycle them according to the highest standards. Find out why customers have trusted us for nearly 100 years.