Spooled Magnetic Wire

Hey everyone,



I recently came into possession of around 2,500 lbs of spooled, enameled copper from a death in my family. The spools seem to be about 30 years old, but have been largely untouched (Many still have their paper sheathing). I have very little insight into the copper trading market, so I was curious whether this wire has much value as it is or would it be better to just scrap it? Thanks in advance for any help you can provide. I'm in over my head, and I don't really know what the wisest move would be.

Depends on how much effort you want to put into selling it. There might be a market for it in the motor or transformer rewinding business, depending on the sizes of wire you have and assuming the coating is still in good shape. If it is fine wire, maybe smaller than 16-18 guage, your options become less, as it would be used in more specialized manufacturing.

If you are close to a big city, Kijiji or Craigslist might be of help to sell it as magnet wire. You might consider eBay, too, but may have to sell smaller quantities to hobby guys.

Make sure you know your bottom line, in other words how much you can get for it at the scrapyards. You have enough to be able to negotiate a better price than their "walk-in" prices so shop around and phone as many yards as you can....to find the best price. Once you know this you are in a good position to talk to rewind shops and other places that may be interested in buying it as wire.

There is an outfit on the 'web called "the surplus record" which is a directory of sellers in (mostly) the US who sell used industrial equipment. In amongst those sellers are people who specialize in used electrical gear, and they may be worth contacting. Do a google search for the site.

Good luck and let us know how you make out!!

Jon.

Thanks for the help, Jon!

I'm in Boston, so I'll definitely check-out the Craigslist market. Most of the wire seems to be 33 gauge, so I'm guessing it will be difficult to find a buyer. I'll definitely let you all know how things turn out!

pics please
so we know what ur talking about
so we can be envious of u

Be sure to describe it as magnet wire as Jon called it instead of magnetic wire. That makes a big difference.

Just to be sure....33 guage....that should be pretty darn fine, like hair?

Jon.

Yes, extremely fine like hair

imgur: the simple image sharer

imgur: the simple image sharer