Extension Cords

I work with a couple contractors (mostly commercial roofing) and that is my main source of scrap metal. The other day, one of the guys has several damaged extension cords (the orange kind) that have been retired from field service. Either the prongs are broken off, damaged insulation, taped up, etc. Basically any of them that could be an OSHA violation. So I extimate that I have around 30-40 pounds worth. Before I take them in, do you usually get #2 insulated for them or a different grade? Should I cut the plugs off before I take them in?

I think that depends on your specific yard. My yard takes them as #2 insulated and they do require me to clip the ends off, otherwise they will downgrade it to low recovery. I also think many people on this forum would consider stripping those, especially those who have a nice wire stipper. I do not have such a tool, so I clip 'em and ship them. (Ok, I don't actually ship them, but I couldn't resist the rhyme.)

I also clip and ship them. If I had a decent wire stripper I would strip every wire I get because of the greater return.

The yards I go to do not require the ends to be cliped so I bring them in as. They are #2 insulated copper. Call your yard and aske them if you need to cut the plugs off. Leave them on if you can or you would be losing wieght.

I cut the ends off the ones I get, they give me #2 Insulated and I get a little bit of bright wire and brass from the plugs.

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Originally Posted by scraptologist

I also clip and ship them. If I had a decent wire stripper I would strip every wire I get because of the greater return.

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if you want a good stripper for extension cords you can make one in about 30 seconds at no cost. Take a 2x4 maybe 6" long. Drill a hole at about a 45* angle from the 4" face down to the 2" side. The hole should be a little bigger than the cord so it pulls through easy. Drill another hole the same as the first only the size of the inside wires. To use it simply start the wire in the hole use a utility knife as a cutter. Just hold it on the block so just the tip is cutting the insulation and pull the wire through. With a little practice you will be able to score the insulation and not cut the wire. I tried the block with the screws but I lost patience adjusting the screw for each wire and the blade is way sharper.

By me you can keep the ends on and get #2. I just snip off the brass and add to the pile...

does anyone else save the actual plug itself as well? or do you guys just rip the brass out?
I get 10 cents a pound for the plugs with the brass still intact.
not sure which way is more profitable.

I strip extension cords with the block..its easy n i like doing it while having a few beers..only scrappin ill do while intoxicated..i hate having to take all the electrical tape off prior though

id also like to hear about the plugs...have a couple buckets full..10 cents seems a bit low since they are brass..but i guess they contain mostly plastic..idk like to hear some inputs