Consumption And Yearend Stocks Of Copper-Base Scrap In The United States

This table presents detailed data on the consumption and yearend stocks of various types of copper-base scrap processed in the United States, categorized by scrap type and processor type such as smelters, refiners, ingot makers, brass and wire-rod mills, and foundries. This information is crucial for understanding the supply dynamics and recycling efficiency within the copper industry, which directly impacts the cost structure and availability of copper for manufacturing and construction. Tracking consumption and inventory levels helps stakeholders anticipate market trends, manage resource allocation, and support sustainable metal use by promoting scrap recycling.

Analyzing the data from 2020 to 2021 reveals several notable trends. Total consumption by smelters, refiners, and ingot makers decreased from 112,000 metric tons in 2020 to 103,000 metric tons in 2021, while their yearend stocks dropped significantly from 53,000 to 30,000 metric tons. Brass and wire-rod mills showed a slight decline in consumption, from 768,000 to 755,000 metric tons, with yearend stocks remaining relatively stable around 1,500 metric tons. Foundries and miscellaneous manufacturers increased consumption modestly from 45,600 to 46,900 metric tons, but their stocks halved from 3,280 to 1,670 metric tons. Among unalloyed scrap, consumption by smelters, refiners, and ingot makers rose slightly from 61,800 to 64,400 metric tons, while stocks fell sharply from 49,300 to 23,200 metric tons. In alloyed scrap, consumption by smelters, refiners, and ingot makers declined from 50,600 to 38,700 metric tons, but their stocks nearly doubled from 3,710 to 6,790 metric tons. These shifts suggest evolving processing patterns and inventory management strategies within the copper recycling sector during this period.