Dismantling compressor an old refrigerator is often the first step not only to replace a failed unit, but also to hand over the equipment for scrap. Inside the sealed housing of this unit there is hidden a significant amount of valuable materials, such as copper, aluminum and steel, the cost of which at collection points can vary depending on the purity and volume of delivery.
However, the extraction process non-ferrous metal requires not only physical effort, but also strict adherence to safety measures, since there is technical oil inside the device and residual pressure may remain. Improper disassembly can lead to injury or environmental pollution, so before starting work, you must carefully prepare the workplace and tools.
In this article we will take a detailed look at the technology for safely opening the case, methods for separating materials into fractions and factors affecting the final revenue. It is important to understand that the efficiency of extraction non-ferrous metal directly depends on the accuracy of the operations and the tools used.
Preparation of the workplace and necessary tools
Before proceeding with physical disassembly unit, you should organize the space. The ideal option would be a garage with a concrete floor or an open area that can be easily cleaned of possible oil stains. Working in a residential apartment is extremely undesirable due to the specific smell and noise.
For high-quality disassembly, you will need a specific set of tools that will allow you to overcome the strength of the steel body. The main tool will be an angle grinder, popularly called a “grinder”, equipped with cutting wheels for metal with a thickness of at least 2 mm.
Also indispensable for the work:
- 🔨 A hammer and a heavy sledgehammer for deforming the body and knocking out internal elements.
- 🔧 A set of open-end wrenches and an adjustable wrench for unscrewing fasteners and tubes.
- 🪚 A hacksaw for metal for precise cuts in hard-to-reach places.
- 🛢️ A container for draining technical oil with a volume of at least 1 liter.
⚠️ Attention: It is strictly forbidden to open the compressor if it has just been removed from a working or warm refrigerator. Allow the unit to cool completely for at least 2-3 hours to avoid burns and sudden release of hot refrigerant.
Remember to prepare personal protective equipment. Glasses with side protection will protect your eyes from metal shavings, and thick gloves will prevent cuts from the sharp edges of sawn metal. A respirator will also be useful, since when old winding insulation burns, caustic smoke may be released.
Safety precautions and draining technical oil
The primary stage of any disassembly is the removal of technical fluids. Inside the sealed casing motor-compressor there is a special mineral oil that provides lubrication of rubbing parts and heat removal. Its volume usually ranges from 150 to 300 ml, depending on the model.
To drain the oil, you must turn the compressor upside down or on its side so that the pipes are at the lowest point. Then you need to cut off or cut off the lowest of the copper pipes with pliers. The liquid will begin to flow out by gravity, and it should be collected in a pre-prepared container.
Collected oil cannot be poured down the drain or onto the ground, as it is classified as waste oil products. It must be taken to a special collection point or disposed of in accordance with environmental regulations in your region. After the oil has completely drained, it is recommended to vigorously shake the compressor several times to remove any remaining liquid from the internal cavities.
Some experts recommend “heating” the unit before opening the housing, but this must be done carefully. Heating can contribute to the evaporation of residual moisture and light fractions, but there is a risk of ignition of oil vapors if there are sparking elements in the housing or an open fire is used.
Opening the sealed compressor housing
The most labor-intensive stage is the direct destruction of the steel housing. The factory welding connecting the two hemispheres of the casing is very high quality and can withstand high internal pressure. Simply breaking it with a hammer is not enough; you will need to use a cutting tool.
The optimal method is to carefully cut along the weld using grinders. It is necessary to make a cut along the entire perimeter of the connection between the upper and lower bowls. You should not try to cut right through the metal the first time; it is better to make several passes, gradually going deeper into the seam.
If using a power tool is impossible, use the knockout method. In this case, a series of strong blows are applied to the weld seam with a chisel or the sharp part of a hammer, trying to pierce the metal and destroy the welded joint. This method is more labor-intensive and creates more deformation at the edges.
After the weld is destroyed, the top cover is removed, allowing access to the insides. You will see electric motora piston group and valve system immersed in an oily environment. At this stage, it is important not to damage the windings if they are planned for further delivery as a separate fraction of copper.
Extraction and sorting of non-ferrous metals
The internal structure of the compressor is valuable precisely due to the content of non-ferrous metals. The main mass is copperwhich is used in the stator windings of the electric motor. The purer the copper is extracted, the higher the price per kilogram will be upon delivery.
To extract copper, it is necessary to remove the stator from the core. Often the windings are filled with varnish and pressed tightly against metal plates. They can be cut with a knife or sawed off on one side, and then pulled out in bunches on the opposite side. Aluminum is contained in the piston group and some fastening elements.
☑️ Disassembly checklist
Steel makes up the main weight devices (housing, engine core, shaft, connecting rod). It is sold separately as ferrous scrap, the price of which is much lower. Therefore, maximum purification of copper and aluminum from steel is key to maximizing profits.
The table below shows the approximate metal content in a standard household compressor:
| Type of metal | Approximate weight (grams) | Share in product (%) | Scrap category |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steel (body, core) | 6000 - 8000 | ~85% | Black scrap |
| Copper (windings, tubes) | 800 - 1200 | ~12% | Copper (Mix/Shine) |
| Aluminum (piston) | 100 - 300 | ~3% | Aluminium |
It is worth noting that these figures may vary depending on the manufacturer and year of manufacture of the equipment. Old Soviet models often contained more copper in the windings, while in modern units manufacturers strive to save materials.
Disassembling the piston group and valves
After removing the main engine block, attention should be turned to the mechanical part - the piston group. The piston, as a rule, is made of aluminum alloy and mounted on a connecting rod. To remove it, it may be necessary to knock out or unscrew the locking screw, if it is provided for in the design.
In the upper part of the cylinder there is a valve system, which includes plates and springs. These elements are often made of special spring steel or non-ferrous alloys. Their weight is small, but with large volumes of processing they are also sent to the appropriate containers.
What to do with the remaining varnish on copper?
It is possible to burn copper on a fire or a gas burner to remove varnish, but this reduces its category when handing over. It is better to hand over the windings as “burnt copper” or “copper insulation” if the receiver agrees to accept them at the appropriate price. Pure copper without varnish is more expensive.
When dismantling the piston, be careful: oil residues and small metal shavings may remain inside the cylinder. Washing parts in kerosene or diesel fuel will help remove contaminants before weighing. Pure aluminum is valued higher than contaminated aluminum.
Factors influencing the cost and yield of the metal
The final amount you will receive for the deposit tsvetmetdepends on many factors. The first of these is the current rate on non-ferrous metals exchanges, which dictates the purchase prices of collection points. Fluctuations can be significant within a month.
The second important factor is the purity of the fraction. Copper, stripped of insulation, varnish and solder, belongs to the "Gloss" or "Mix" category and is much more expensive than windings in varnish. Aluminum is also sorted into alloys, although in household compressors it is usually homogeneous.
⚠️ Attention: Some collection points may apply reduced coefficients for contaminated metal or require additional processing fees. Always check the acceptance conditions and metal category before weighing.
The volume of the batch also matters. Renting one compressor may not be worth the time and electricity required when you take into account the depreciation of the tool. The profitability of the process increases sharply when processing a batch of 5-10 or more pieces of equipment.
Waste disposal and environmental aspects
Disassembling a compressor for non-ferrous metal generates not only valuable raw materials, but also waste. Oil residues, oil-soaked rags and wire insulation require proper disposal. Throwing them into a regular trash container is prohibited by environmental legislation.
The steel cases remaining after removing the insides are high-quality black scrap. They can be delivered to the same metal collection point, separating the flows of non-ferrous and ferrous metals for ease of weighing. This will also bring a small additional profit.
Compliance with recycling rules helps preserve the environment and avoid fines from regulatory authorities. Responsible recycling of old equipment is becoming the standard in modern society.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
How much copper can you get from one compressor?
On average, from one standard household compressor it is possible to extract from 0.8 to 1.2 kg of copper winding. The exact amount depends on the engine power and year of production of the model.
Is it dangerous to open the compressor yourself?
Yes, it is dangerous without taking precautions. The main risks are associated with the scattering of metal shavings, the possibility of cuts from sharp edges and contact with technical oil. The use of protective glasses and gloves is mandatory.
Is it possible to hand over the entire compressor without disassembling it?
It is possible, but the price per kilogram will be significantly lower, since the receiver will evaluate it as “motor scrap” or “ferrous scrap containing non-ferrous metal.” Disassembly allows you to hand over non-ferrous metals at higher prices.
What to do with compressor oil?
Used compressor oil is waste. It must not be discharged into soil or sewerage. It is recommended to collect it in an airtight container and hand it over to a special collection point for used oils or hazardous waste.