What is Grade A Copper Cathode?
Electrolytic Grade A copper cathodes are the primary refined copper product traded on the London Metal Exchange (LME). Produced by electro-refining of blister copper from smelters, Grade A cathodes meet the LME's specification of minimum 99.99% copper content with tight limits on residual elements. They are the benchmark pricing instrument for global copper trade and the standard feedstock for wire rod mills, tube manufacturers, and semis producers worldwide.
SmeltBridge sources Grade A cathodes from registered producers in Zambia, the DRC, and South Africa — the Southern African Copperbelt, one of the world's most significant copper-producing regions. All suppliers undergo our compliance verification process prior to listing.
Grade A Quality Parameters
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Copper Content | ≥ 99.99% |
| LME Grade | Grade A (LME Registered Brands) |
| Plate Dimensions | Approx. 914 × 914 × 12mm (36 × 36 × 0.5 inches) |
| Plate Weight | Approximately 125 kg per plate |
| Bundle Weight | Typically 1.5–2.0 MT per bundle ( strapped) |
| Silver (Ag) | ≤ 0.0025% (25 ppm) |
| Electrical Resistivity | ≤ 0.017241 Ω·mm²/m at 20°C |
| Packing | Steel-strapped bundles, protected polyethylene wrap |
| Marking | Brand, lot number, weight, month/year of production |
| Documentation | Certificate of Analysis, LME Warrant eligible |
Indicative Pricing
All prices indicative — submit an enquiry for a live quote against current LME
Pricing references LME Grade A spot. Final quote confirmed at time of enquiry based on volume and destination port.
Where We Source From
Delivery & Incoterms
| FOB Durban | Standard. Port well-connected to West African, European and Asian shipping lanes. |
| FOB Dar es Salaam | Alternative corridor for Zambia/Congo-origin material. Lower port congestion. |
| CIF (any destination) | Available on request. Freight quoted per cargo, subject to vessel availability. |
| Minimum Order — Trial | 25 MT (single lot acceptable for new buyers) |
| Minimum Order — Standard | 100+ MT per shipment (full container or breakbulk) |
| Payment Terms | LC at sight or TT against Bill of Lading. Negotiable for established buyers. |
| Documentation | Bill of Lading, Certificate of Origin, Certificate of Analysis, Packing List, Commercial Invoice |
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