How many kilograms of copper are contained in the motor of the refrigerator: analysis by model and practical advice

Disassembling an old refrigerator for parts is a popular way to make money or save money on repairing other equipment. But few people know that compressor electric motor (the heart of the refrigeration unit) contains valuable non-ferrous metal - copper. Its quantity depends on the model, power and year of manufacture of the device. In this article, we will look at how to accurately calculate the weight of copper in the motor, what tools will be needed for extraction, and provide data on common brands of refrigerators.

Many people mistakenly think that there is not enough copper in the compressor - supposedly it is only enough for small things. In fact, even in household models the capacity 100–150 W can be extracted 0.8–1.5 kg of pure copper, and in industrial units - up to 3–4 kg. The main thing is to properly disassemble the motor and separate the winding from the stator. We have collected current data on scales, formulas for independent calculations and warnings about typical errors during dismantling.

⚠️ Attention: Prices for copper scrap depend on region and stock quotes. Before delivery, check the current rates at the collection points - they may differ by 10-30% from the market average.

Why is there copper in the refrigerator motor and where is it located

Copper is used in electric motors of compressors due to two key properties:

• 🔌 High electrical conductivity —second only to silver, which minimizes energy losses during operation.
• 🔄 Plasticity —allows you to create thin winding wires that can withstand vibrations and temperature changes.

In the compressor, copper is concentrated in three nodes:

1. Stator winding —the main source (up to 90% of the total weight of copper). It is a coil of enameled copper wire.
2. Rotor —in some models it contains a short-circuited winding (“squirrel cage”), but it is often aluminum.
3. Connecting cables —thin wires coming from compressor to the starting relay (weight is minimal).

The most valuable part is the stator winding. Its weight depends on:

• 📏 Wire diameter —the thicker, the more copper (but also the higher the resistance).
• 🔄 Number of turns —in powerful compressors there can be several thousand of them.
• 🔋 Engine power — for example, in Atlant XM-4026 (120 W) copper is 30% less than in Liebherr CNef 4815 (200 W).

How much copper is in the compressors of popular refrigerators: table scales

We analyzed data on 15+ models refrigerators and compiled a table with the approximate weight of copper in their compressors. Please note that the values may vary by ±10% depending on the year of manufacture and modification.

⚠️ Attention: The table shows net copper weight after removal of enamel and insulation. The actual weight of the winding with insulation will be 15–20% more.

For an accurate calculation, use the formula:

Copper weight (kg) = (Wire length (m) × Sectional area (mm²) × 8.96) / 1000

Where 8.96 is the density of copper in g/cm³. The length of the wire can be measured after disassembly or approximately calculated by power (see the next section).

How to calculate the weight of copper without disassembling the compressor

If you do not have the opportunity to disassemble the compressor, use indirect methods:

1. By power motor:

   Average copper weight (in kg) ≈ Power (W) × 0.007.

   Example: for a compressor Atlant at 120 W → 120 × 0.007 = 0.84 kg.

2. According to compressor dimensions:

   Measure the diameter and height of the stator. Winding volume ≈ 3.14 × (radius)² × height.

   Copper weight ≈ Volume (cm³) × 0.5 (fill factor).

3. By compressor brand:

   Find the markings on the case (for example, Embraco EGX 120) and check the data in the technical data sheet or on the manufacturer's website.

🔍 Useful life hack: If the compressor is still running, listen to its sound. A booming low-frequency noise often indicates a thick winding (more copper), and a high squeak indicates thin wires (less copper).

Step-by-step instructions: how to remove copper from the compressor

To dismantle the winding you will need:

• 🔧 A set of screwdrivers (Phillips, flat).
• 🔨 Hammer and chisel (for opening the case).
• 🧲 A powerful magnet (to separate iron parts).
• 🔥 Soldering iron (to remove solder from the contacts).
• 🧤 Gloves and glasses (the winding may have sharp edges).

Step 1. Opening the case

The compressor is enclosed in a sealed metal casing. To open it:

1. Turn the compressor upside down (the oil will flow down).
2. Use a hacksaw or grinder to carefully cut off the upper part of the housing along the seam.
3. Remove the stator with the rotor - it will be covered with a layer of oil.

Step 2. Removing the winding

The winding is attached to the stator with a varnish compound. To remove it:

• Heat the stator with a hair dryer (temperature ~200°C) - the varnish will soften.
• Carefully pry the turns with a screwdriver and remove them one by one.
• If the wires are soldered to the terminals, remove solder with a soldering iron.

Step 3. Cleaning copper

The removed winding must be cleaned of:

• 🧴 Enamel —burned in a metal container (in the open air!).
• 🧲 Iron particles —removed with a magnet.
• 🛢️ Oils —washed with kerosene or solvent.

⚠️ Attention: When enamel is burned, toxic gases are released. Use a respirator and carry out the procedure outside, away from flammable objects.

What to do if the winding cannot be removed?

If the wires are “stuck” to the stator, try soaking the part in a solvent (for example, acetone) for 12–24 hours. After this, the varnish will soften, and the winding can be removed without heating.

How much you can earn on copper from the refrigerator

Income from selling copper depends on:

• 💰 Prices per kg — in 2026 in Russia it ranges from 600 to 900 rubles for pure copper (without impurities).
• 🏆 Metal qualities - winding with enamel or solder residue is estimated to be 10–20% cheaper.
• 📦 Batch volume —reception points often give a bonus for large deliveries (from 10 kg).

Approximate calculation for a compressor Indesit DF 4180 (1.1 kg of copper):

• Price per kg: 750 rubles.
• Copper weight: 1.1 kg.
• Total: 1.1 × 750 = 825 rubles.

💡 How to increase profits:

• 🔄 Give it along with copper aluminum parts (for example, a compressor cover) - this is an additional 100-200 rubles.
• 📦 Collect copper from 3–5 refrigerators - many collection points give a discount on delivery for batches of 5 kg.
• 🔍 Check prices at several points - the difference can reach 150 rubles/kg.

⚠️ Attention: Some collection points require a passport or a sales contract when delivering non-ferrous metals. Check the rules in advance so as not to waste time.

Typical mistakes when extracting copper and how to avoid them

Beginners often make mistakes that reduce the weight of copper or make it unsuitable for delivery. Here are the most common:

1. Damage to the winding during removal

   If you tear the wires with force, the copper may tear into small pieces that are difficult to clean. Solution: use pliers with thin jaws and remove the turns one by one.

2. Incomplete removal of enamel

   Residues of varnish reduce the weight of “pure” copper by 5–10%. Solution: anneal the winding on coals (temperature ~400°C) for 10–15 minutes.

3. Loss of small parts

   The compressor has small copper contacts and springs that are easy to lose. Solution: disassemble the compressor on a table with high sides or in a plastic basin.

4. Ignoring safety

   Oil from the compressor is flammable, and freon vapor (if it is not drained) is toxic. Solution: work with gloves, glasses and in the open air.

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Alternative ways to use a compressor (if copper is not needed)

If you do not want to disassemble the compressor for scrap metal, consider other options for its use:

• 🔧 Homemade compressor for painting - suitable for models with a power of 150 W or more. The receiver and pressure regulator will need to be modified.
• 💨 Pump for water aeration - used in aquariums or ponds. It is necessary to remove the oil and replace it with food-grade glycerin.
• 🔥 Oven for firing ceramics — the compressor can be converted into a burner for a mini-furnace (welding skills are required).
• 🚗 Air suspension for a car — powerful compressors (from 200 W) are used to inflate air cylinders.

🔍 Example: A compressor from Stinol STN 167 after minimal modification can be used to inflate bicycle or car tires (pressure up to 3 atm). To do this:

1. Remove the start relay.
2. Connect the compressor via a diode bridge (so that it runs on DC).
3. Install a pressure gauge and pressure relief valve.

⚠️ Attention: Remaking the compressor requires knowledge of electrical engineering. Incorrect connection can lead to a short circuit or explosion (if there is freon left in the system).

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about copper in refrigeration compressors

Is it possible to extract copper from a non-working compressor?

Yes, but first check why it doesn't work. If the cause is a broken winding, the copper can still be removed. If the compressor is jammed due to bearing wear, the stator usually remains intact.

How to distinguish copper from aluminum in the winding?

Copper has a reddish tint, and aluminum has a silvery tint. Also, copper does not stick to the magnet, while aluminum can be scratched with a fingernail (it is softer). In doubtful cases, check the density: copper is 3 times heavier.

How long does it take to disassemble the compressor?

If you have the tools and experience - 1.5–2 hours. Beginners may need 3–4 hours, especially if the winding is “stuck” to the stator.

Is it possible to sell the entire compressor without disassembling it?

Yes, but the price will be lower. Scrap metal collection points buy entire compressors based on the weight of the “ferrous” metal (~30–50 rubles/kg), while pure copper costs 15–20 times more.

Which compressors contain the maximum amount of copper?

The most “copper” ones are industrial refrigerator compressors (for example Bitzer or Copeland) and old Soviet models (Donbass, Minsk). In them, the weight of copper can reach 2.5–4 kg.