Protecting India’s electrical industry: Imperative for an efficient copper recycling regime
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Quality and safety at risk
Copper is fundamental to the production of electrical equipment, underscoring the critical importance of maintaining high-quality standards for this material. Although copper scrap is an integral element of the copper value chain, quality remains a significant concern that must be addressed. Copper scrap often comes in two main forms: Druid Scrap, which contains a mix of 30% to 70% copper along with harmful materials like PVC and rubber. If the duty on copper scrap is reduced further, the influx of low-grade scrap may increase, forcing manufacturers to use poor materials that may fail to meet the stringent requirements of the electrical sector.
The consequences of using inferior copper are far from negligible. A recent study by a has highlighted significant differences in the conductivity and trace element contamination of remelted copper versus Electrolytic Tough Pitch (ETP) Copper Rods, which are smelted and refined to higher standards. Remelted copper exhibits lower conductivity and higher levels of contaminants, such as iron, lead, and nickel. This leads to products that are not only less efficient but also pose potential safety risks in electrical applications, where even small deficiencies in material quality can result in power failures or dangerous malfunctions.
