Copper Cathode Grade A: LME vs. Non-LME Technical Specifications
In the global non-ferrous market, Copper Cathode Grade A (99.99%) is the critical substrate for electrical conductivity. WorldwideTradeX bridges the gap between primary smelting operations in Africa (DRC/Zambia) and industrial manufacturers globally, ensuring compliance with both LME and ASTM standards.
Table of Contents
- LME Registered vs. Non-LME Brands
- Chemical Assay: The 99.99% Purity Benchmark
- Logistics: Packaging & Storage
- Technical Specifications Table
1. LME Registered vs. Non-LME Commercial Reality
While the London Metal Exchange (LME) sets the benchmark, much of the world's physical trade occurs "off-exchange."
- LME Registered: Brands produced by vetted smelters, suitable for delivery into LME warehouses. Fixed pricing.
- Non-LME Grade A: Functionally identical purity (99.99+%) but produced by non-registered smelters. These typically trade at a discount to LME Cash, offering higher ROI for manufacturers.
2. Chemical Assay: Purity & Impurity Limits
Purity is defined by what is absent. To meet ASTM B115-10 or BS EN 1978:1998 standards, the material must undergo mass spectrometry at the loading port.
- Verification: Every WorldwideTradeX shipment is certified by SGS or Bureau Veritas to ensure the Cu content meets the contractual 99.9935% threshold.
3. Industrial Logistics & Handling
- Sheet Size: Standard 914mm x 914mm x 12mm approx.
- Packaging: Aluminum-banded bundles (approx. 2.5 MT each), palletized for ocean transit in 20ft containers (approx. 22-25 MT per box).
4. Technical Specifications: Metals Hub
| Element | Requirement (ASTM B115) | Typical Result (WTX Source) |
|---|---|---|
| Copper (Cu) | 99.99% Min. | 99.9935% - 99.997% |
| Arsenic (As) | 5 ppm Max. | < 2 ppm |
| Lead (Pb) | 5 ppm Max. | < 3 ppm |
| Iron (Fe) | 10 ppm Max. | < 7 ppm |
| Sulfur (S) | 15 ppm Max. | < 10 ppm |
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