The question of the content of valuable metals in household appliances is becoming increasingly relevant, especially when it comes to recycling or handing over old equipment to non-ferrous metals collection points. Engine from an old refrigeratorwhich is technically called a compressor, is a sealed unit, inside which a significant amount of expensive material is hidden. electromagnetic copper. Many owners, seeing a heavy unit, mistakenly believe that the bulk of the weight comes from this metal, but the real picture requires a detailed consideration.
Before proceeding with dismantling, you need to understand that yield of pure metal depends on the compressor model, year of manufacture and manufacturer. On average, one standard household compressor contains from 0.5 to 1.2 kilograms of copper, but this data can only be obtained after opening the case. It is also important to consider that modern models may be less rich in non-ferrous metals compared to their Soviet counterparts, where saving resources was not a priority.
In this article we will look at how much copper can be extracted from different types of compressors, what tools will be needed for safe disassembly and how to correctly assess the quality of the scrap obtained. Accurate weight Depends on many factors, including winding thickness and rotor design, so the figures given will be averages, but will help form a realistic idea of potential profit.
Compressor structure and distribution of metals
To understand where copper comes from, you need to look inside sealed casing Electric motor-compressor consists of two main parts: an electric motor and a mechanical pump group. It is in the electric motor, located in the lower part of the housing, that there are stator windings made of copper wire. The rest of the mass of the device is steel, cast iron and aluminum, which make up the main weight of the unit.
The stator is a set of electrical steel plates, in the grooves of which copper winding. Older models used pure copper with varnish insulation, while in some modern budget options, manufacturers can use copper-plated aluminum, which significantly reduces the cost of scrap. The motor rotor is also made of steel, and the shaft is made of a durable alloy that is resistant to friction.
⚠️ Attention: There is oil inside the compressor, which can be toxic, and when older models depressurize, there is a risk of residual refrigerant vapors escaping. Work should only be carried out in a well-ventilated area or outdoors.
The mechanical part, including pistons and cylinders, is usually made of steel and cast iron, although colored bushings may be found in some units. However, the main interest for the deliverer is precisely stator winding, since it is the easiest to extract and has the highest price on the scrap market.
Why do different compressors have different amounts of copper?
The amount of copper depends on the engine power and year of production. In Soviet ZIL or Biryusa refrigerators, the motors were more powerful and massive, so the copper content in them reached 1.2 kg. Modern European and Chinese compressors are often made more compact, reducing the weight of the windings to 0.6-0.8 kg to save materials.
How much copper is in different types of compressors
The weight of the extracted metal directly depends on the dimensions and purpose of the refrigeration unit. Industrial models contain significantly more copper, but in domestic conditions we are more often faced with standard one- or two-compressor refrigerators. Below is a table showing the approximate copper content of popular types of compressors.
| Compressor type | Approximate model | Total weight (kg) | Copper yield (kg) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low temperature | SK-100 (Soviet) | 12-14 | 1.0 - 1.2 |
| Medium temperature | Atlant 10 (Modern) | 9-10 | 0.7 - 0.9 |
| Inverter | LG Linear / Samsung | 8-9 | 0.5 - 0.7 |
| Low-power (bar) | Low-power compressors | 4-5 | 0.3 - 0.4 |
It is worth noting that inverter compressors, which are becoming standard in new refrigerators, often have a more complex design and may contain less pure copper due to the use of electronic control units and modified winding designs. Soviet units, such as series FK-100 or CX-100, were considered the most "rich" in non-ferrous metal.
When scrapping, it is important to consider that receivers often evaluate the entire compressor as an “electric motor” or require mandatory disassembly to confirm the presence of copper. If you plan to hand over several units of equipment, it makes sense to first open one unit to assess the average metal content in the batch.
Required tools for disassembly
The process of extracting copper from a sealed compressor housing requires the use of serious tools, since the housing is welded and designed for high internal pressure. Simply disassembling it with keys will not work - it is necessary to destroy the integrity of the case. The main tool here is angle grinder (grinder) with a metal disc.
In addition to the grinder, you will need:
- 🛠️ Hammer and chisel — for the initial splitting and expansion of the cut, if the grinder disc will get stuck.
- 🧤 Safety gloves and glasses —are required, since metal shavings and fragments can fly in different directions.
- 🔧 Set of wrenches —for unscrewing the starting relay and dismantling work after opening.
- 🪚 Hacksaw for metal - as an alternative to an angle grinder if you need to work more quietly, although it will take longer.
⚠️ Attention: When When sawing the compressor housing, do not damage the internal windings with deep cuts. Try to make cuts carefully so as not to damage the copper wire, otherwise its weight upon acceptance may be underestimated due to contamination or difficulty in removal.
It is also recommended to prepare a container for draining the oil that is located inside the compressor. It may leak out at the time of opening, so it is better to lay down rags or prepare rags in advance. Mineral oil Do not pour compressors into the sewer or onto the ground.
☑️ Preparation for disassembling the compressor
Step-by-step instructions for extracting copper
The first step is to prepare the workplace. The compressor must be securely fixed so that it does not roll on the floor while working with the tool. It is best to lay it on its side or clamp it in a vice, if the workbench design allows it. First, remove the start relay and protective casing, if they are not already removed.
Next is the sawing process:
- Make a circular cut with a grinder in the middle of the body, cutting it along the equator. There is no need to try to cut through the metal the first time - just make a deep groove.
- After making a circle around the entire circumference, strike with a hammer along the cut line to split the body. The sealed seam should burst.
- Spread the body halves apart. Inside you will see a “glass” of oil and an electric motor immersed in it.
- Drain the oil and remove the engine. It is mounted on springs or rubber shock absorbers, which need to be cut or unscrewed.
After removing the motor, you will be faced with the task of removing the copper from the stator. The fastest way is to hammer one side of the set of plates with a chisel or ax to free the grooves. The copper winding can then simply be knocked out or pulled out. In some cases, the winding has to be burned out, but this reduces the quality of copper due to oxidation and loss of varnish, so the mechanical method is preferable.
The resulting copper should be cleaned of insulation if the receiving point requires “shine” (pure copper without varnish). If they rent it out as a “mix,” then thorough cleaning is not necessary, but the price will be lower. Weigh the resulting metal on a kitchen or luggage scale to know the exact result.
Economic feasibility and scrap prices
Is the gamble worth it? To answer this question, you need to compare labor costs with the market value of non-ferrous metal. Currently, the price of copper varies, but it always remains one of the most expensive non-ferrous metals. However, if we consider disassembling one refrigerator, the profit will be scanty.
Consider the approximate economics of the process:
- 💰 Cost of copper: Accepted at a price of 500 to 700 rubles per kg (the price may vary depending on the region and exchange rate).
- 📉 Output from one compressor: On average 0.8 kg, which gives revenue of about 400-500 rubles.
- ⚙️ Costs: Wear of discs for an angle grinder, electricity, time (about 30-40 minutes for disassembly and cleaning).
⚠️ Attention: Prices for scrap non-ferrous metals are not fixed and depend on stock exchange quotes. Before handing over the batch, be sure to check the current price list at the nearest collection point, as conditions may vary.
As can be seen from the calculations, disassembly of one compressor for the sake of copper is not economically feasible if we consider this as a business idea. However, if you have a collection of old refrigerators or are a professional appliance recycler, then copper extraction becomes a worthwhile step to maximize profits. In addition, the remaining steel casing can also be turned into ferrous metal, which will add another 50-70 rubles to the final amount.
Safety and ecology
Working with (disassembling) electrical appliances is associated with certain risks. In addition to mechanical injury from the tool, there is a danger of electric shock if the wires are not disconnected before starting work. Always check that there is no voltage at the terminals.
Particular attention should be paid to waste disposal. Compressor oil is a petroleum product and requires special disposal. You should not pour it into the soil or water bodies, as this causes serious harm to the environment. Take used oil to special collection points or use it for technical needs (for example, lubrication of mechanisms that do not require clean oil), if this is permissible.
It is also worth remembering the dust generated when cutting metal and burning insulation. It contains microparticles of copper, steel and varnish combustion products, which are harmful to the respiratory tract. Use a respirator or gauze bandage, especially if you work in a closed garage or workshop.
Can a compressor from a refrigerator be used for other purposes?
Yes, many craftsmen use old compressors to create airbrushes, inflate tires or pneumatic tools. However, before this you need to remove the refrigerant and oil, replacing them with suitable analogues, and re-solder the tubes to the required connectors.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to determine the amount of copper in the compressor without opening it?
It is impossible to determine exactly, but you can rely on the weight of the compressor itself compressor and its dimensions. Heavy Soviet models usually contain more copper (up to 1.2 kg), while light modern analogues contain less (about 0.6 kg). You can also find technical documentation for a specific engine model on the Internet.
Do they accept entire compressors or is it necessary to remove copper?
Most non-ferrous metal collection points prefer to accept entire compressors in the “electric motor” or “mix” category, but the price per kg will be lower than for pure copper. Some resellers can buy the entire unit if they are confident in the high yield of metal, but it is more profitable for a private individual to hand over the purified copper separately and hand over the steel to ferrous metal.
Is the gas inside an old refrigerator dangerous when sawing?
In old refrigerators, freon R12 could be used, which, when in contact with an open flame or high temperature, can emit toxic substances. Modern models use safer refrigerants. However, before cutting, it is recommended to make a hole in the tubes to release any remaining gas, and to work in a ventilated place.
Is there gold or silver in the refrigerator compressor?
There are no precious metals in the electric motor itself (windings). However, the start relay, which is mounted on the outside of the compressor, may contain contacts made of silver or silver with other metals added. The amount of this precious metal is negligible (fractions of a gram), and its extraction at home does not make economic sense.