Whether you just completed a home renovation project or demolished an old building, you may have a lot of copper wiring lying around. If you have no use for it, you could make quite a bit of money—and help the environment—by recycling it. However, before bringing the wire to a copper recycling center, you’ll have to strip the insulating coating. If you’re unsure how to do this, below are a few strategies. 

3 Strategies for Stripping Copper Wire 

1. Try a Tabletop Stripper 

If you regularly have a lot of wire that you can strip, consider investing in a tabletop device to streamline the process. Tabletop strippers are affordable and intuitive, allowing users to master them quickly. They allow you to feed wire into a small opening and out the other side, stripping it as you pull it through. The experts at your local copper recycling center can recommend a reliable model that will meet your needs.

2. Use a Handheld Tool

For smaller amounts of wire, it is easiest to strip it by hand. As long as the wire is as thick as your finger, you can strip it with a razor blade or electrician’s tool. Place the wire in direct sunlight for a few hours before starting, as this will soften up the insulation and allow you to peel it off easily.

Then, put on thick gloves so that you don’t accidentally cut yourself. Hold the wire away from your body and place the blade near your hand. Gently cut into the insulation and pull the coating away. 

3. Invest in a Stripping Machine 

If you have to strip huge batches of copper wire consistently, an electric wire stripper is the best choice. These motorized machines can strip a broad range of wires in a fraction of the time that it takes to do so manually. And, if you take the remnants to a reputable copper recycling center, the machine will quickly pay for itself.

Once you finish stripping all of your copper wire, take it to Denver Metal Recycling. They are Colorado’s favorite copper recycling center, and are proud to serve as a one-stop-shop for those who want to unload ferrous, non-ferrous, and electronic items. They accept virtually all kinds of metals and promise fast turnaround times. To learn more about the services at this copper recycling center, visit the website. Call (303) 316-2880 to inquire about their recycling prices.