All scrap copper can be recycled. The recycling process is simple. Firstly, the collected scrap copper is sorted. Uncontaminated scrap copper or copper alloys with the same composition can be melted and reused directly; severely contaminated scrap copper requires further refining to remove impurities; for mixed copper alloy scrap, melting is followed by composition adjustment. Through this recycling process, the physical and chemical properties of copper are not damaged, ensuring it is fully rejuvenated. The recycled scrap copper should be processed in two steps: one step is to dry it and burn off organic materials such as motor oil and lubricating grease.

Two steps are smelting the metal and removing metal impurities in the slag. Waste copper can be recycled, thereby holding high value. For instance, the price of clean Grade 1 waste copper can reach over 90% of the price of new refined copper; the price of new brass scrap can also reach over 80% of the price of corresponding brass. The world's advanced waste copper processing technology and equipment have formed a trend with the tilt furnace smelting process combined with the ISA electrolysis process for waste copper.