Copper / Aluminum Radiator Scrap

ISRI Code : NA | Last updatedOctober 28, 2025 10:37:13 PM

Copper/Aluminum Radiator Scrap—also called ACR or copper fins—comes from radiators in refrigerators, air conditioners, and automotive cooling systems. Consisting of unalloyed copper tubes with aluminum cooling fins, these scraps are prized for their dual non-ferrous metal content and strong resale value in global recycling markets.

What Is Copper/Aluminum Radiator Scrap?

Copper Aluminum Radiator Scrap refers to radiators composed of copper tubes surrounded by aluminum fins—the standard for heat exchanger components in appliances, HVAC units, and vehicles. As these devices are replaced, their radiators are collected for recycling, offering high-value returns thanks to the strong global demand for both copper and aluminum.

ISRI Code: Talk
Composition: Unalloyed copper tubes (internal), aluminum fins (external), no brass tubing, iron, or contaminants to achieve “clean” grade.
Typical Devices: Air conditioners, refrigerators, automotive radiators, industrial heat exchangers.

Professional Market & Pricing Intelligence

Real-World Pricing (mid-2020, for reference):

USA East & West Coast: $1.16/lb
USA Midwest: $1.14/lb
China: 24,650 CNY/MT

Check live up-to-date prices on ScrapMonster, or compare at Scrap Yard Prices.

Pricing Factors:

Purity/cleanliness (removal of steel/plastic tanks, contaminants)
Regional demand and shipping costs
Metals market volatility (especially copper pricing trends)
Bulk quantity—large, sorted lots command premium offers

Trading, Preparation, and Recycling Best Practices

How to Maximize Scrap Value:

Cut off steel or plastic ends: Classifies scrap as “clean” (ISRI “Talk”), fetching maximum payout.
Keep aluminum and copper together, separate from brass or iron: Only radiators with the correct copper/aluminum composition qualify.
Drain all fluids and remove non-metal attachments.
Aggregate large volumes: Scale attracts better offers and logistics efficiencies.

Selling and Exporting

Post real-time sell offers on the ScrapMonster marketplace.
Use Scrap Yard Finder to identify buyers in your region.
Bulk sellers: Consider contract sales to trading houses that supply export markets, especially China and Southeast Asia.

Recycling Process & Sustainability Value

Shredding & Separation: Radiators are granulated; metals are separated, often using eddy current and air sorting.
Clean Recovery: Copper and aluminum are melted and re-alloyed for new manufacturing—no downcycling!
Infinite Recyclability: Both copper and aluminum can be recycled indefinitely without loss of quality.
Environmental Impact: Recycling ACR scraps saves significant energy versus virgin mining, and prevents e-waste.

Did you know? For every ton of copper recycled, up to 85% energy is saved compared to mining new copper ore!

ScrapMonster Tools, Services & News

Fun Facts: Copper Aluminum Radiator Edition

Copper aluminum radiators have powered efficient cooling since the 1950s—saving billions of kWh annually.
One recycled car radiator can yield enough copper and aluminum to manufacture hundreds of new phone charging cables!
Both copper and aluminum from radiators are forever-recyclable, making old appliances part of the ever-growing green economy.
ScrapMonster’s platform facilitated over $50 million in copper aluminum radiator trade volume in 2024.

Related Materials & Further Reading

For the world’s best real-time copper and aluminum pricing, marketplace deals, and industry analysis, always start with ScrapMonster.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to identify copper/aluminum radiators for scrap?
Look for radiators with reddish copper tubes inside and silvery aluminum fins outside. Magnet does not stick to either metal.
Can I sell radiators with steel or plastic ends?
Yes, but cut ends off where possible for a “clean” grade (higher value). Sell steel or plastic separately.
How do market prices compare to pure copper scrap?
Lower than bare bright copper, but often above mixed or contaminated copper or plain aluminum scrap.
Can I export copper aluminum radiator scrap?
Absolutely—ensure loads meet “clean” standards and are properly documented; check environmental and customs regulations.
Why does my local yard pay less than the ScrapMonster average?
Transportation, processing, local market demand, and purity can affect pricing. Always get offers from multiple yards using Scrap Yard Finder.