The Most Important Qualities and Applications of Copper Metal

Copper is a metal that is used in a wide range of industries all across the world. It has so many fascinating qualities and characteristics that learning about this particular metal can be fun. It will give you a new respect for the copper commodities you use on a daily basis; ones you didn’t even realize were made from copper, like electrical wiring, waterproof roofing material, and even the pennies in our pockets!

Continue below to learn some of the most important and interesting facts about copper metal, plus how you can support global copper preservation and make some cash at the same time!

Recycle Copper Indianapolis Indiana 317-244-0700
Recycle Copper Indianapolis Indiana 317-244-0700

Common Copper Metal Applications

Copper ore was first discovered over 10,000 years ago and is still one of the most used metals within various industries today. Common applications and industries of copper include chemical, industrial, technological, and even artistic trades. This is possible because copper has the ability to endlessly transform and mold, thus allowing our industries to use it in various forms and for countless purposes.

Copper Occurs Naturally in Nature

The fact that copper is a naturally occurring element on earth is extremely valuable. In its purest form, it’s very soft and malleable, and has a reddish-orange hue to it. This is the color that most people associate with the metal we call copper. Because copper occurs naturally in nature, it is also a reusable and recyclable metal. This characteristic makes it even more valuable and useful to us.

Even commodities with copper parts within them can be recycled as well. What’s most exciting about copper occurring naturally is that there are still fast amounts available all around the globe. It is one of the most plentiful natural metals found on earth. This is good considering it is such an important element for life and society.

Copper is Essential to Living Organisms

Copper is a key constituent of a certain respiratory enzyme. It is a trace dietary mineral found in all living organisms and is vital for survival. In organisms like Crustaceans and mollusks, copper is found in blood pigments, a constituent of hemocyanin. In other organisms, such as humans or wildlife, it is a key dietary mineral found in organs, blood, bone, and muscle. Every living organism requires some degree or trace of copper. In humans, copper is mostly found in our liver, muscle, and in our bones.

Copper Can Be Recycled Over and Over Again

Copper metal is 100% recyclable, plus it can be recycled and repurposed over and over again, without jeopardizing its useful attributes and properties. By recycling copper at home and at work, you can support the global initiative to preserve our natural copper resources. Metal recycling preserves our natural resources, decreases our need to mine for new ores, reduces air and environmental pollution, and even puts money back into the economy. In fact, you can make fast cash by recycling copper and scrap metal in your town. Common copper items to recycle include copper wire, cables, circuit boards, appliances, plumbing fixtures, roofing, and coinage.

Looking for a scrap metal yard that will pay you the most cash for your copper and scrap metal materials? Contact Zore’s Recycling at 317-244-0700 for the most professional and hassle-free scrap metal recycling services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We pay cash on the spot!

Related Posts:

Is it True That Copper Can Kill Bacteria?
4 Ways to Invest in Copper
How to Cut Copper Pipes With a Pipe Cutter

Indianapolis Metal Recycling
Indianapolis Metal Recycling

4 Types of Metal That Do Not Rust

Metal is one of the most valuable, naturally-occurring resources on our planet. One of the reasons why metal has such great value to our society is due to its strength and durability. But even the strongest metals can be subjected to damage or oxidation. That is why it is important to use the right type of metal for your intended application. When it comes to applications that call for strong, rust-resistant metals, these four are your top choices.

Indiana Steel Recycling
Indiana Steel Recycling 317-244-0700

Metals That are Resistant to Oxidation (Rusting)

► Copper

We start with copper because many industry scholars and hobbyists argue that copper is not considered a noble metal because it is not technically corrosion-resistant. They often orate that because copper is such a reactive metal in the case of oxygen exposure, it is not a good fit for the definition of an anti-corrosive metal. Basically, copper will not rust because it does not contain any iron content, however, it can be subjected to certain deterioration when it reacts with oxygen. It does develop a green patina overtime, which will protect the copper from further corrosion.

Stainless Steel

There is a very good reason why the majority of all modern-day kitchens are equipped with stainless steel appliances, such as refrigerators, microwaves, dish washing machines, stoves, and even plumbing fixtures like faucets. The very good reason is that stainless steel will not rust when exposed to moisture or water, like many other kinds of metals would. Even though stainless steel usually does contain some traces of iron, which should technically make the steel prone to oxidation, they are mostly resistant because they contain high ratios of chromium. Chromium is more reactive than iron, so it quickly oxidizes, thus creating a protective chromium oxide coating on the stainless steel. Furthermore, stainless steel often contains other rust-resistant alloys, like nickel and molybdenum, strengthening its resistance against oxidation.

Aluminum

Aluminum metal is used in various industries and applications all across the globe, and it’s due to its two most valuable properties: light weight and resistance to corrosion. Commodities like airplanes, automobiles, bikes, building materials, and more are all manufactured with high aluminum content. The reason why aluminum is a terrific option for an anti-corrosion metal is because it contains very little, or even no iron content, making it stand up against conditions that cause rust. When exposed to moisture, a layer of aluminum oxide forms on the surface, protecting the metal from oxidation and corrosion.

 ► Galvanized Metal

Since steel metal is not naturally resistant to rusting, often times it must be galvanized for an added layer of protection. Galvanized carbon steel stands up well against conditions that commonly cause it to oxidize. Galvanization is the process of coating steel with zinc, which acts as a barrier against water and oxygen. This is known as cathodic protection. Like aluminum and chromium, the zinc reacts fast to oxygen, and creates a zinc oxide layer on the surface of steel.

How to Sell Your Rusty Steel and Iron Scrap Metal in Indiana

Call Zore’s Recycling division at 317-244-0700 to get paid cash on the spot with our Indianapolis metal recycling services and opportunities. We have been a family owned and operated company for over 75 years, and continue to make customer satisfaction our number one goal in our metal recycling division. And to make recycling easier for you, we offer several customer conveniences at no extra charge! Request a free estimate, today.

Indianapolis Metal Recycling
Indianapolis Metal Recycling

How to Cut Copper Pipes With a Pipe Cutter

Copper is a terrific material. It is a soft, malleable, and ductile metal that is an excellent conductor of heat and electricity. It’s no wonder copper is used in so many building and construction applications! So, if you are preparing for a plumbing-related project, copper piping should be at the top of your supply list. But if you are going to work with copper pipes, it is helpful to know how to adjust their lengths in order to properly match various fittings. Fortunately, it couldn’t be easier!

Continue reading to learn how to effectively, and efficiently, cut through copper piping, and where to go to safely dispose your scrap copper.

Indianapolis Copper Metal Recycling
Indianapolis Copper Metal Recycling 317-244-0700

Tool and Supplies You Will Need:

✏ Pipe Cutter
✏ Round File
✏ Microfiber Cloth
✏ Paper Towels
✏ Ketchup (Yes, the condiment)

Getting Started:

You can find all the tools and supplies you need to cut copper at any local home improvement or hardware store. Rather than using a pipe cutter, you may also choose to use a pipe slice or hacks. In this simple guide, we will be focusing on using a pipe For instance, hacks has are not recommended for plumbing pipe projects, and pipe slice devices only allow you to cut one particular size. So if you have various sizes to cut, you must purchase separate devices for each pipe diameter.

A pipe cutter allows for a hassle-free, exact, and easy pipefitting experience. Then again, that’s what you should expect from a tool named precisely after the function it is intended to do. However, it is primarily recommended for pipes with larger diameters. For smaller diameters or thinner pipe walls, you will want to use a pipe slice.

To Use a Pipe Cutter:

Step 1 – Position the pipe inside your pipe cutters. Then tighten the blade just right, being careful to not over-tighten. Over-tightening risks bending the pipe.

Step 2 – Using your hands, twisted pipe around 3 to 4 revolutions, and then remove it from the pipe cutters.

Step 3 – After removing the pipe, you should see a groove made by your revolutions. Slide the pipe back into the pipe cutters so that the groove aligns with the blade. Then secure it once again, but not too tight.

Step 4 – Begin twisting the pipe around several revolutions until it breaks free from the cutters.

Step 5 – Your pipe cutters should have a built-in burner removal tool. Use it to shave off any burrs or raised lips on the inside of your piping. If your pipe cutters do not have this tool, just use a round file instead.

Where to Recycle Scrap Copper in Central Indiana

Call Zore’s Recycling at 317-244-0700 to get started with profitable metal recycling services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Not only has Zore’s Inc. been a family owned and operated company for over 75 years, we pay cash on the spot for your metal commodities. We accept cans, sheet metal, appliances, vehicles, auto parts, equipment, and more! Request a free estimate, today.

4 Common Metals That are Easy to Recycle

The amount of metal used in our society is astronomical on a global scale. That is because metal is a highly-useful and beneficial commodity that can be applied in infinite industries, from automotive manufacturing and construction, to food service, plumbing, electrical, medical equipment, and more. If you are interested in doing your part to preserve our planet’s natural resources and reduce our need to mine for new ores, your best course of action is to start a metal recycling initiative at home and in the office!

Although all metal is 100% recyclable, there are some metals that are easier to come by than others. Continue reading to learn the top 4 easiest metals to get started with when it comes to recycling.

Indianapolis Scrap Metal Buyers 317-244-0700
Indianapolis Scrap Metal Buyers 317-244-0700

Aluminum

Do you have some food or soup cans laying around? These are likely made from aluminum! If not, they are made of tin, which is also entirely recyclable and reusable. Additional sources of aluminum scrap include car parts, metal patio furniture, mailboxes, sheet metal, bicycles, pots and pans, window frames, and some plumbing fixtures like sinks and faucets.

Steel

Steel is perhaps the number one most recycled metal in the United States. In fact, before Eco-friendly practices were trendy, steel was being recycling regularly. Not only does steel recycle require a fraction of the energy needed to recycle other materials, it does not lose any of its valuable properties in the process. This means steel can be recycled and reused over and over again.

Lead

Lead might not be something we want in our water, but it is something we want to recycle as often as possible. Common sources of recyclable lead include automotive batteries, including batteries for other types of motorized things, like motorbikes, bulldozers, golf carts, scooters, boats, and more. It is important to properly dispose of lead materials by recycling them because it can be harmful to the surrounding environment if leaked.  

Copper

The most common sources of copper that can be recycled are electronics and cookware. If you have old pots and pans made from copper, you have a decent freight of recyclable metal. Other sources include anything with a computer or circuit board, as well as, electrical wiring. Some gutter systems and roofing materials are also made from copper, and can be recycled over and over again.

A Trusted Indianapolis Metal Recycling Company That Pays You Cash

Call Zore’s Recycling division at 317-244-0700 to recycle metal in Indianapolis, Indiana for cash. We have been a family owned and operated company for over 75 years, and continue to make customer satisfaction our number one goal in our metal recycling division. And to make recycling easier for you, we offer several customer conveniences at no extra charge! Request a free estimate, today.