I'm glad you're reusing and recycling scrap wire. Stripping copper wire can be a profitable sideline, but it's vital to take the right approach to ensure safety and efficiency. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you efficiently strip wire: **Tools Required:** 1. Insulated wire stripper (manual or electric) 2. Pliers or wire cutters 3. File or sandpaper 4. Safety goggles and gloves (optional, but recommended) **Preparation:** 1. **Sort Wire**: Sort wire by type and size to ensure efficient wire stripping. Remove any aluminum or wire with aluminum insulation as they have no value for your purposes. 2. **Clean Wire**: Remove any debris, dirt, or debris from the wire to prevent damage to the wire stripper or the stripping process. **Stripping Methods:** 1. **Manual Wire Stripper**: Using a manual wire stripper, place the wire between the blades and rotate the stripper along the wire to cut the insulation. Carefully peel the insulation away from the copper wire. 2. **Electric wire strippers**: If you have a lot of wire, consider investing in an electric wire stripper. These machines can quickly and efficiently strip the insulation. Run the wire through the machine and follow the manufacturer's instructions. 3. **Pliers and wire cutters**: If you don't have a wire stripper, you can use pliers and wire cutters to carefully cut the insulation and then rip it off the copper wire. **Tips and Variations: * **File or Sandpaper**: For smaller wires or bundles of wires, you can use a file or sandpaper to grind away the insulation. This method may be more time-consuming, but it works for smaller wires. * **Fire or heat source**: Some people use fire or heat sources to melt the insulation and then strip it from the copper wire. However, this method may release chloride and pose a fire hazard, so it is strongly discouraged. **Safety Reminders:** 1. **Wear Protective Gear**: When stripping wire, wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from sharp edges and debris. 2. **Insulated Wire Disposal**: Dispose of insulated wire properly and sort it as non-recyclable or specialty waste as it may contain hazardous materials. 3. **Risk of Electric Shock**: Avoid contact with live wires, work in a controlled environment (such as indoors), and take precautions to prevent electric shock. **Selling Your Copper Wire:** 1. **Local Metal Recycling Center**: Research metal recycling centers in your area and compare quotes to get the best price. 2. **Selling Online**: Consider selling your copper wire on online marketplaces such as eBay, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace, but be careful of scams and follow safety guidelines. 3. **Organized Collection**: Organize an organized copper wire collection in your community and invite friends, family, or neighbors to participate to increase recycling efficiency. During the wire stripping process, remember to follow local regulations and guidelines to ensure safety and environmental protection. Good luck and hope you make a good profit from recycling copper wire!