Search question non-ferrous metals in household appliances often arises among those who plan to recycle old equipment or are trying to understand the design of the unit. Refrigerator is a complex system where copper plays the role of the main conductor of the refrigerant, ensuring effective heat exchange. Understanding where exactly this valuable resource is located is important not only for those who sell scrap, but also for craftsmen engaged in repair or circuit replacement.
The bulk of copper is concentrated in the freon circulation system, which hidden from the user's eyes behind panels and thermal insulation. Unlike the steel from which the body is made, or plastic, copper has high thermal conductivity and ductility, which makes it indispensable for creating sealed lines. However, you won’t be able to get to it just like that - it requires disassembly nodes, often associated with the risk of damage to other elements.
It is important to immediately note that the amount of copper in modern models is significantly less than in Soviet-made equipment. Manufacturers are striving to save resources and are introducing aluminum alloys, which are cheaper but more difficult to solder. However, compressor and the evaporator remain the key points where pure non-ferrous metal can be found. Let's look at the design in more detail so that you understand what you have to face.
Compressor: the heart of the refrigeration unit
The most obvious place where copper is contained is the motor-compressor. It is this unit that creates the pressure necessary to circulate the refrigerant through the system. Inside the sealed casing there is an electric motor, the windings of which are made of copper wire. In older models, the weight of the copper winding could reach 1-1.5 kg, while in modern compact engines it often does not exceed 300-500 grams.
In order to remove copper from the compressor, it is not enough to simply disconnect the tubes. It is necessary to open the metal case, which is extremely difficult and dangerous to do at home without special equipment. Inside you will find a wound stator and a rotor. It is stator winding that is of interest for the delivery of scrap. Often compressors are sold entirely as scrap or as electric motors without opening them.
It is worth considering that modern compressors may have aluminum windings, externally coated with varnish, which masks the material. This can be determined by weight (aluminum is lighter) or by magnetic properties (copper is not magnetic, but neither is aluminum, but the steel core is magnetic). If you plan recycling, it is better to take the unit to a specialized point, where it will be professionally disassembled.
Copper extraction process from a motor is labor-intensive and requires skills in working with a grinder and a chisel. In addition, vapors from varnish and insulation when burned to clean wires are toxic. Therefore, if your goal is metal, and not a sporting interest in disassembling, evaluate the profitability of such actions.
Evaporator and condenser: where is the most metal
The main volume of copper in the refrigerator is concentrated in the heat exchangers: the evaporator and the condenser. The evaporator is usually located inside the freezer or behind the back wall of the main compartment. In older models of the “crying” type, this could be a snake frozen into the wall, or a separate aluminum-copper module. In modern systems No Frost the evaporator is a radiator with copper pipes and aluminum plates.
The condenser grille that we see behind the refrigerator, in older models was made of steel tubes painted with black enamel. However, in more expensive or older equipment there were also copper capacitors, which were distinguished by a characteristic reddish tint on cuts or in places where the paint was damaged. It is almost impossible to find a completely copper condenser in a refrigerator manufactured after 2000 - they were replaced with steel or aluminum.
The most valuable element here is the inside of the evaporator. In systems with refrigerant circulation around the perimeter of the housing (inside the wall), a copper tube can be stretched along the entire perimeter of the fridge compartment. To get to it, you will have to completely dismantle the internal plastic box and destroy the integrity of the thermal insulation, which makes the unit unsuitable for further operation.
When disassembling heat exchangers, the problem of metal separation often arises. Copper tubes are often pressed into aluminum fins or welded to steel members. To obtain pure copper, combustion or chemical separation is required, which is not recommended in garage conditions due to environmental standards.
Capillary tube and connecting lines
In addition to the main heat exchangers, the system contains a capillary tube. This is a very thin copper tube with a diameter of less than 1 mm, which serves as a throttle to reduce the pressure of the refrigerant before entering the evaporator. Despite the small diameter, its length can reach several meters, which in total gives a noticeable weight of non-ferrous metal.
The capillary tube is often wound around the return line (suction tube) for heat exchange. When disassembling it is easy to damage, since the metal is very soft. In modern refrigerators, the capillary can be made of steel or special alloys, but it remains a classic material copper. It runs along the body, often hidden in polyurethane foam insulation.
It is also worth mentioning the connecting pipes. At the junction of the compressor with the discharge and suction lines, short sections of copper tubes are used. They are necessary for high-quality soldering and sealing of the system. When the refrigerator is completely dismantled for scrap, these elements are assembled together with the main array of pipes.
Differences in the design of old and new models
The design of refrigerators has undergone significant changes over the past decades, and this has directly affected the content of non-ferrous metals. Soviet technology, such as ZIL, Biryusa or Saratov, used large amounts of copper. The pipelines were thick-walled, the compressor windings were massive. The weight of copper in such a refrigerator could reach 2-3 kg or more.
Modern units from brands like LG, Samsung or Bosch are designed taking into account cost minimization. Engineers are replacing copper with aluminum where technology allows it. For example, evaporators are often made entirely of aluminum, and motor windings are made of copper-plated aluminum. This reduces weight and cost, but complicates recycling.
Below is a comparative table of copper content in different types of equipment:
| Type of refrigerator | Year of manufacture | Approximate copper content | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soviet (ZIL, Minsk) | 1970-1990 | 2.0 - 3.5 kg | Compressor, entire circuit, condenser |
| Imported (old) | 1990-2005 | 1.0 - 2.0 kg | Compressor, evaporator, capillary |
| Modern (No Frost) | 2010-2026 | 0.3 - 0.8 kg | Mainly winding and capillary |
As can be seen from the table, one cannot count on a large “harvest” of copper from the new equipment. However, even 500 grams of non-ferrous metal are valuable when processing large quantities. It is important to understand that aluminumwhich is now actively used is also accepted, but is cheaper.
Why is copper replaced with aluminum?
Aluminum is cheaper, lighter and has good thermal conductivity. The main problem of aluminum is the difficulty of soldering and lower ductility, which increases the risk of leaks due to vibration, but welding technologies allow it to be successfully used in mass production.
Instructions for safe dismantling
If you are determined to disassemble the refrigerator for the sake of metal, you must follow strict safety rules. The system is under pressure and the refrigerant may be flammable or toxic. In addition, there is technical oil inside the compressor, which cannot be poured down the drain or onto the ground.
For work you will need: a hacksaw, wire cutters, pliers, safety glasses and gloves. Do not use open fire to anneal insulation or heat connections if there is freon left in the system - this can lead to the formation of poisonous gases (phosgene). First, it is necessary to ensure ventilation of the room.
☑️ Preparation for disassembly
Start by disconnecting the compressor. Saw through the copper tubes at the inlet and outlet. Let the oil drain into the prepared container. Then you can remove the rear grille (condenser) if it is metal. To remove the evaporator, you will need to remove the inner lining of the freezer. Be prepared for the tubes to be glued to the walls or frozen into the foam.
⚠️ Attention: Never cut through the tubes under pressure. Even if the refrigerator has not been operating for a long time, residual refrigerant pressure may remain inside, which will lead to a sudden release of gas and oil into the eyes.
When cutting the compressor windings, use a grinder with a metal disc, carefully removing the casing. Do not hit the housing with a sledgehammer, so as not to damage the stator and crumble the winding into dust. Carefully remove the coils, cutting the wire if necessary.
Environmental aspects and disposal
Disassembling refrigerators yourself carries not only physical stress, but also environmental responsibility. Refrigerants such as freon, when released into the atmosphere, destroy the ozone layer and contribute to the greenhouse effect. Modern gases may be less dangerous to ozone, but still require proper disposal.
Oil from a compressor is classified as waste petroleum products. Its entry into soil or water bodies causes enormous harm to the ecosystem. One drop of oil can contaminate a large amount of water. Therefore, when dismantling, collect all technical liquids in sealed containers for subsequent delivery to special collection points.
Plastic and polyurethane foam insulation that remain after removing the metal are also waste. They cannot be burned, as toxic substances are released during combustion. It is best to hand over the body and plastic to recycling collection points, where they will be processed properly.
Many countries have recycling programs for household appliances that allow you to return your old refrigerator for free or even get a discount on the purchase of a new one. This is a more civilized and safer way than makeshift disassembly in the garage.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Approximately how much copper is in one refrigerator?
On average, a modern refrigerator contains from 0.3 to 1.5 kg of copper. In old Soviet models, the amount could reach 3 kg. The exact weight depends on the year of manufacture, model and type of compressor.
Is it possible to hand over an entire refrigerator as non-ferrous scrap?
No, scrap metal collection points usually accept refrigerators as ferrous scrap (steel) or require preliminary cutting. For non-ferrous metal (copper, aluminum) they will pay only for parts that have been cleared of impurities.
Is it dangerous to open the compressor yourself?
Yes, it is dangerous. There may be pressure, residual gas and technical oil inside. In addition, when using an angle grinder, there is a risk of injury from metal fragments. Protective equipment is required.
Where is copper located in the No Frost system?
In the No Frost system, copper is located in the evaporator (hidden behind the plastic panel in the freezer), in the capillary tube and in the compressor windings. The external condenser is often steel or aluminum.
What to do with freon during disassembly?
Freon must be vented in a well-ventilated area or, better yet, pumped out with a special pump for disposal. Simply releasing it into the atmosphere is not recommended for environmental reasons.