What is the difference between Cu-ETP and Cu-OF wire rod?

Cu-ETP contains a small controlled amount of oxygen and covers most building wire and cable. Cu-OF is oxygen-free copper used where higher ductility or special electrical properties are required.

Can copper scrap replace cathode?

High grades such as bare bright wire can be remelted by refiners and some rod mills, but scrap is traded on its own grade system and price basis, separate from cathode.

Copper Cathode and 8 mm Wire Rod: A Procurement Guide for Cable and Wire Makers

Grade A cathode

Grade A copper cathode is defined in standards such as EN 1978 (Cu-CATH-1) and ASTM B115, and it is the quality deliverable against the London Metal Exchange copper contract. Cathodes are flat plates delivered in strapped bundles, usually of a few tonnes each.

Ask for the producer brand, whether it is LME-registered and the certificate of analysis for the lots offered.

Wire rod specification

Electrical wire rod is usually Cu-ETP (electrolytic tough pitch) copper, commonly 8 mm in diameter, to standards such as EN 1977 or ASTM B49. Key points are electrical conductivity (typically specified at or above 100% IACS), oxygen content, surface condition and elongation.

Oxygen-free (Cu-OF) rod is a separate, higher-specification product. State which one your drawing line needs.

Coils and packing

Wire rod is supplied in compact coils, often of several tonnes, on pallets or with protective wrapping to prevent oxidation and damage. Confirm coil weight, inner and outer dimensions and packing so they match your pay-off equipment.

Pricing and verification

Cathode and rod are typically priced against the LME copper price plus a premium, with rod carrying an additional conversion premium. Because copper is a high-value material, independent weight and quality inspection at loading is standard practice.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between Cu-ETP and Cu-OF wire rod?: Cu-ETP contains a small controlled amount of oxygen and covers most building wire and cable. Cu-OF is oxygen-free copper used where higher ductility or special electrical properties are required.
Can copper scrap replace cathode?: High grades such as bare bright wire can be remelted by refiners and some rod mills, but scrap is traded on its own grade system and price basis, separate from cathode.

For professional buyers

Request a current quotation

BSL Enterprises confirms specification, availability and terms for each transaction in a written quotation. To receive a precise offer, include:

Quantity per shipment and per year
Destination port or delivery place
Grade, specification and packaging
Preferred Incoterm and documents

Products covered in this guide: Copper, Copper Wire / Copper Wire Rod, Copper Scrap.

Request current quotation

References

London Metal Exchange — copper contract specification

Editorial note: this guide summarises general procurement practice and recognised trade and specification frameworks where they apply. It is reviewed and updated as needed and is not a statement of BSL stock, pricing or capacity.