"prettying up" copper

[newbiedigger]

I know there are several types of copper classified by scrap yards and the industry in general. What if I came across a used appliance that had come to the end of its life and extracted the copper from it and it had debris on it that couldn't be easily wiped off to improve its appearance/value. Would I be be able to improve its value if I used a wire brush or a grinding wheel to remove said debris?

[Mechanic688]

If it's still insulated then it wouldn't matter to the yard. Save your time and energy and apply it somewhere for better $
Most yards grade copper by size, also insulated and non-insulated.

[newbiedigger]

I should have been more specific. If I came across the copper tubing leading out of a water heater (non-insulated) and I ground the debris off it, the result would still be the same?

[Mechanic688]

I should have been more specific. If I came across the copper tubing leading out of a water heater (non-insulated) and I ground the debris off it, the result would still be the same?

They'll take it as clean #2.

[newbiedigger]

Thanks!

[Mechanic688]

I don't think they'll give you #1 for copper tubing.

[scrapping4ever]

I don't think they'll give you #1 for copper tubing.

Mine does as long as there is no solder or paint.

[jimicrk]

Mine does as long as there is no solder or paint.

Same here. No solder joints = #1 and it doesn't have to be clean or shiny. Yards may vary.

[Hypoman]

Same here. No solder joints = #1 and it doesn't have to be clean or shiny. Yards may vary.

Yep, mine does as well.

[SuperDave]

If you cleaned off all debris and corrosion and solder and all you had left was shiny copper pipe, it would be classified as Candy, which pays a premium over dirty copper pipe, which is classified as number 2 copper. Here it is about 15 to 20 cents difference, per pound.

Hope this helps!

[HonestScrap]

I just cut off the dirty parts and separate it. #1 Clean, #2 Dirty

Is it worth the time and effort to clean it?...Not to me.