Extraction of copper from a refrigerator motor: instructions for beginners and professionals

Old refrigerators are a real treasure trove for those who collect non-ferrous metals. The core of the electric motor (compressor) contains up to 1-1.5 kg of copper high purity, which today is in stable demand at collection points. However, extracting this metal requires not only patience, but also knowledge of safety precautions: incorrect actions can lead to injuries or damage to equipment.

This article will tell you in detail how to disassemble a refrigerator motor, separate the copper windings from the stator and rotor, and also prepare the scrap for delivery. We will look at both manual methods (for beginners) and semi-professional approaches using tools. We will pay special attention electrical safety —after all, even a compressor disconnected from the network can pose a danger due to the residual charge in the capacitors.

⚠️ Warning: Working with electric motors requires taking precautions. If you are not confident in your skills, it is better to contact specialists or take the entire refrigerator to a scrap metal collection point - many companies offer on-site assessment and dismantling.

1. Preparation: tools and safety precautions

Before you start disassembling, make sure you have everything you need. Without the right tools, the process can be lengthy or dangerous. Here is the minimum set:

• 🔧 A set of screwdrivers (flat and cross) - for removing the fastenings of the compressor housing.
• 🔨 Hammer and chisel - will be needed to carefully open the stator.
• 🛠️ A grinder or a hacksaw for metal — for cutting the body (if you plan to destroy it).
• 🧤 Protective gloves and glasses - are required when working with metal and electrical components.
• 🔌 Multimeter - to check the absence of voltage on capacitors.

Also prepare your workplace: a garage or workshop with good ventilation is best. Refrigerator compressors (for example, models Danfoss, Embraco or Secop) often contain oil that can spill when disassembly Cover the floor with film or cardboard.

⚠️ Attention: Some old refrigerators (manufactured before the 2000s) may contain freon in the compressor R-12 refrigerant , which is dangerous for the ozone layer. Its leakage is prohibited by law! If you are not sure about the type of refrigerant, contact a specialized workshop for safe disposal.

Before starting work, be sure to:

1. Disconnect the refrigerator from the network for at least 24 hours (condensers can retain charge).
2. Remove the starting relay from the compressor - it is usually attached to the top or side.
3. Check with a multimeter that there is no voltage at the terminals.

2. Removing the compressor: removing the motor from the refrigerator

The compressor is usually located at the bottom of the refrigerator, at the back. It is a black or gray metal cylinder with refrigerant pipes. To remove it:

1. Disconnect all wires from the compressor (it is better to photograph the connection diagram in case the refrigerator is still being repaired).
2. Cut the tubes connecting the compressor to the cooling system using pipe cutter or an angle grinder. Do not use a hacksaw - chips may get inside the system!
3. Unscrew the mounting bolts (usually 3-4 pieces) and carefully remove the compressor.

The weight of the compressor can reach 15-20 kg, so it is better to work with an assistant. After removing, clean it of dust and oil - this will make further disassembly easier.

Disconnection from the network for 24+ hours

Removing the starting relay

Checking with a multimeter

Photographing the connection diagram

Cutting pipes with a pipe cutter

Cleaning from oil and dirt-->

3. Disassembling the compressor: how to get to the copper

Now the most important stage is opening the compressor housing. There are two main approaches:

For beginners we recommend second method (destruction of the housing), but with reservations:

1. Secure the compressor in a vice or between the boards so that it does not move.
2. Wear safety glasses and gloves - when cutting metal, sparks and fragments fly.
3. Using a grinder, make a longitudinal cut along body (depth 3-5 mm).
4. Use a chisel and hammer to carefully split the body, trying not to damage the windings.

After opening you will see stator (fixed part with windings) and rotor (rotating shaft). Copper is located precisely in the stator windings - these are thick wires wound around the core.

What to do if the windings are stuck to the core?

If the copper is tightly held on stator, try heating it with a hair dryer (temperature 200-300°C). This will help soften the varnish that covers the windings. An alternative is to soak the stator in a solvent (for example White spirit) for 12-24 hours, but this takes longer and is less effective.

4. Removing copper windings: technique and nuances

When the stator is freed, we proceed to the separation of copper. It is important here not to damage the wires in order to get the maximum price upon delivery. Algorithm of actions:

1. Using a knife or chisel, pry the edge of the winding and try to separate the first turn.
2. If the copper does not give in, carefully tap the end of the stator with a hammer - this will help “wedge” the turns.
3. Wind the separated wire onto coil or pipe to avoid getting tangled.
4. Repeat the process until you have removed all the windings. On average, a refrigerator compressor contains 800-1500 grams of copper.

Tips to speed up the process:

• 🔥 Use a soldering iron to melt the varnish in the places where the windings are attached.
• 🧲 A magnet will help separate the steel core plates from the copper wires.
• ⚖️ Weigh the copper as you remove it - this will help assess the efficiency of operation.

⚠️ Attention: Some compressors (especially those from refrigerators Samsung or LG latest models) have windings from aluminum, not copper! To check, scrape the wire with a knife: copper has a characteristic reddish tint, aluminum has a silvery tint. Not all collection points accept aluminum, and the price for it is 3-4 times lower.

5. Cleaning and preparing copper for delivery

Scrap metal collection points only pay for pure copper, so after removing it you need to prepare:

• 🧹 Remove any remaining varnish, plastic and insulation. To do this, you can use:
• Mechanical method - knife, sandpaper.
• Chemical - solvent or acetone (soaking for 1-2 hours).
• Thermal - heating with a blowtorch (only in the open air!).
• 🔄 Roll the wires into neat coils - this makes them easier to transport and weigh.
• 📦 Divide copper by grade (if there are other sources): wires, tires, radiators.

The price of copper at collection points ranges from 400 to 700 rubles per kg (for 2026) and depends on:

• Purity of the metal (without impurities).
• Shapes (coils are valued higher than scraps).
• Batch volume (the more you hand over, the higher the price per kg).

Before going to the collection point:

1. Call and check current prices - they can change weekly.
2. Check whether they accept copper from individuals (some only work with legal).
3. Take your passport with you - many points require it to complete the transaction.

6. Alternative methods for extracting copper

If you do not have the time or tools for manual disassembly, consider these options:

• 🔄 Hand over the entire compressor. Some collection points buy compressors "assembled" at a price 100-200 rubles per piece (depending on the model). This is faster, but less profitable.
• 🔧 Use a drill with a special nozzle. The "ruff" attachment helps to quickly remove the windings, but requires skill.
• 🔥 Burn the insulation in a furnace. Effective, but dangerous - toxic gases are released. Suitable only for open spaces.
• 🤝 Hire a specialist. In some cities there are workshops that, for a fee (200-500 rubles), will disassemble the compressor and return you pure copper.

If you plan to do this regularly, it makes sense to purchase one for opening compressors - it speeds up the process by 5-10 times. The cost of such equipment starts from hydraulic press for opening compressors - it speeds up the process by 5-10 times. The cost of such equipment starts from 15,000 rubles.

⚠️ Attention: In some regions there are restrictions on the independent disposal of refrigerators due to the hazardous substances they contain (freon, oil). Before mass disassembly, check local environmental regulations to avoid fines.

7. Economic feasibility: is the game worth the candle?

Let's calculate how profitable it is to extract copper from refrigerators. Let's take a medium-sized compressor as an example:

Conclusions:

• 💰 One compressor brings ~600 rubles in profit, but requires 2-3 hours work. This 200-300 rubles/hour is not the highest wage.
• 📈 Mass dismantling (from 10 compressors per week) can bring 6,000-10,000 rubles additional income.
• ♻️ Environmental aspect: Proper disposal of refrigerators reduces the load on landfills, so some municipal services pay a premium for the delivery of equipment.

If your goal is one-time profit, it is easier to hand over the entire refrigerator to the collection point (price: 500-1500 rubles per piece, depending on the model). If you consider this as permanent earnings, it makes sense to optimize the process: purchase faulty refrigerators through advertisements (often given away for free), organize a workplace and develop skills.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

❓ How much copper is contained in a refrigerator compressor?

On average - from 800 grams up to 1.5 kg, depending on the model and year of manufacture. The most “copper” compressors are in old Soviet refrigerators (ZIL, Minsk, Biryusa), in modern (Atlant, Indesit) there may be less copper - 500-700 grams.

❓ Is it possible to extract copper without destroying the compressor?

Yes, but it is difficult. You will need:

1. Carefully cut off the top cover of the compressor.
2. Remove the rotor and stator without damaging the windings.
3. Unwind the wires manually (may take 4-5 hours).

This method is justified if do you plan to sell the stator and rotor separately (for example, for the repair of other compressors).

❓ Which compressors contain aluminum instead of copper?

Aluminum windings are more often found in:

• Refrigerators No Frost (especially models after 2010).
• Compact refrigerators (Bar, Mini).
• Cheap Chinese brands (Vestfrost, Beko some series).

To distinguish copper from aluminum, pay attention to:

• Color: copper - reddish, aluminum - silver.
• Weight: copper is 3 times heavier.
• Flexibility: copper wire bends without breaking, aluminum wire breaks.

❓ Where is it better to hand over copper from the refrigerator?

Optimal options:

1. Large scrap metal collection points (for example, Chermet, Vtortsvetmet) - give the best prices, but may require large quantities (from 5 kg).
2. Specialized recycling companies - sometimes they come to your home and evaluate scrap using photos.
3. Private buyers (by advertisement) - the price may be higher, but the risk of running into scammers.

Before the visit:

• Check the price by phone (it can change daily).
• Ask if accompanying documents (passport, contract) are needed.
• Find out if they accept copper insulation (some reduce the price by 10-20%).

❓ Is it legal to extract copper from refrigerators?

Yes, if:

• The refrigerator belongs to you (or you received it legally, for example, through an advertisement "I'll give it away for free").
• You do not violate environmental standards (you do not discharge freon into the atmosphere, do not burn insulation within the city).
• You hand over copper to licensed collection points (not "gray" buyers).

Prohibited:

• Disassemble refrigerators abandoned on the street (this is considered theft).
• Dispose of the remains of the compressor in regular landfills (only in specialized landfills).

In some regions, a license is required for mass disposal of equipment. If you plan to do this regularly, check the local rules with Rosprirodnadzor.