Shredded Copper Wire
Copper Chop · Chopped Wire · Copper Scrap Wire
Shredded copper wire is produced through chopping and granulating electrical wire and cable for recycling and material recovery. The material may consist of clean copper strands or a mixture of copper and residual insulation depending on the processing stage. Its irregular, stringy geometry can create handling challenges such as interlocking, bridging, and wrapping around rotating equipment. KWS designs heavy-duty conveying systems that effectively handle shredded copper wire while minimizing plugging, wear, and maintenance requirements.
Overview
Chemical Formula
Common Names
Common Forms
Applications
- Metal recycling and recovery operations
- Copper refining and smelting
- Wire and cable manufacturing feedstock
- Precious and non-ferrous metal processing
- Industrial scrap reclamation systems
Material Characteristics
| Property | Value / Description |
|---|---|
| Common Forms | Chopped Wire, Copper Chop, Shredded Strands, Mixed Copper and Insulation |
| Bulk Density | 40-120 lb/ft³ (varies with wire size, cleanliness, and insulation content) |
| Flow Behavior | Poorly flowing; irregular strands tend to interlock and bridge |
| Abrasiveness | Moderate Metallic particles and contaminants contribute to wear |
| Corrosiveness | Low Copper is naturally corrosion resistant |
| Dust Potential | Low to Moderate Fines and insulation particles may be generated during processing |
Handling Challenges
- Interlocking and bridging in hoppers and storage bins
- Wrapping around shafts and rotating equipment
- Variable feed rates due to irregular particle geometry
- Equipment wear from metallic particles and contaminants
- Maintaining material separation and product purity
Summary
Shredded copper wire requires conveying and storage systems designed for irregular, metallic, and difficult-to-flow materials. KWS Manufacturing provides engineered solutions—including shaftless screw conveyors, drag conveyors, and live bottom bins—that ensure reliable flow while minimizing plugging and maintenance.
With extensive experience handling metal scrap, recycled materials, and difficult bulk solids, KWS ensures efficient, durable, and dependable performance for shredded copper wire handling systems.
