How much copper is contained in Pozis refrigerator compressor: detailed analysis

Brand refrigerators Pozis have long established themselves as reliable and durable household appliances, but even they fail over time. If your unit has served its purpose, and repairs are unprofitable, it is logical to think about recycling its components. Compressor is the most valuable part of the refrigerator in terms of scrap metal, because it is in it that the maximum amount is concentrated. copper. But how much is there really? Is it worth spending time on disassembling, or is it more profitable to hand over the entire unit?

In this article we will figure out exactly where in the compressor Pozis copper is hidden, how to extract it without risk to health, and provide specific weight figures for popular models. You will also learn what tools are needed for dismantling, how to distinguish copper from other metals, and where it is more profitable to sell it. We will also reveal several life hacks that will help increase profits from scrap metal.

⚠️ Attention: Disassembling the compressor is associated with the risk of electric shock (there may be a charge left in the capacitors!) and refrigerant leakage. If you are not confident in your skills, entrust the dismantling to specialists or hand over the entire compressor to a collection point.

Pozis refrigerator compressor design: where the copper is hidden

The compressor is the heart of the refrigeration system, and its design includes several key elements, containing copper or its alloys. The main “copper” components:

• 🔹 Electric motor winding —high-purity copper (grade M1 or M0) is used here, as it provides minimal resistance and maximum thermal conductivity. The weight of the winding depends on the power of the compressor.
• 🔹 Refrigerant circuit pipes —usually made of copper alloys (for example, brass) for corrosion resistance. The diameter and thickness of the walls vary.
• 🔹 Contact groups and terminals are small, but also contain copper (sometimes coated with tin or silver for better contact).
• 🔹 Radiator grille (if any) - in some models Pozis used to cool the compressor.

The most valuable element is the winding. In refrigerator compressors Pozis of average power (100–150 W), the weight of pure copper in the winding is from 0.8 to 1.5 kg. Tubes are added more 0.3–0.7 kg, but their alloy can contain up to 30% of other metals (zinc, tin), which reduces the delivery price.

⚠️ Attention: In compressors inverter type (installed in modern models Pozis after 2018) copper is used more economically due to the optimized design. Here, the winding weight can be 20–30% less than in traditional piston compressors.

How much copper is in compressors of popular Pozis models

To give accurate numbers, we analyzed technical data and reports on disassembling compressors from refrigerators Pozis different years of production. Below is a table with the approximate copper content for common models:

The data in the table is approximate. Actual weight may vary by ±10% depending on the year of manufacture and modification of the compressor. For example, models Pozis before 2010 sometimes used thicker windings, which increased the weight of copper to 2 kg or more..

💡 Tip: To accurately find out the power of the compressor, look at its nameplate (a metal plate with markings). Look for the parameters Input Power or Rated Power.

How to remove copper from the compressor: step-by-step instructions

Disassembling a compressor is a labor-intensive and potentially dangerous process. You will need:

• 🔧 Set of screwdrivers (flat and Phillips).
• 🔨 Hammer and chisel (for opening the case).
• 🛠️ Pliers and side cutters.
• 🧤 Gloves and safety glasses (required!).
• 🔥 Gas torch (optional, for burning out the winding).

⚠️ Attention: Before starting work required discharge the capacitor! To do this, close its contacts with a screwdriver with an insulated handle through a 10 kOhm resistor (or simply wait 24 hours after turning off the refrigerator).

Disconnect the refrigerator from the network for at least a day|Wear protective gloves and goggles|Prepare tools and workplace|Check for the absence of refrigerant (no hissing when the tubes are punctured)|Discharge the condenser-->

Step 1. Dismantling the compressor

Disconnect the compressor from the refrigeration circuit by cutting the tubes with side cutters. Be careful: refrigerant (freon) may remain under pressure in the system. It is better to work outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.

Step 2. Opening the housing

The compressor housing is usually welded or welded. Carefully knock down the top cover with a hammer and chisel, then remove the rotor and winding. In piston compressors Pozis the winding is located in the lower part, under the stator.

Step 3. Removing copper

The winding is a coil of copper wire wound around a core. To remove it:

1. Cut or unsolder the contact leads.
2. Carefully unwind the wire (you can use a drill at low speeds to speed up the process).
3. If the wire is varnished, burn it over an open fire (outside!) or strip it with a knife.

🔥 Important: When varnish is burned, toxic fumes are released. Do this only in a well-ventilated place, away from residential premises!

What to do with the remains of the compressor?

The remaining metal (stator, housing, piston) can also be taken as ferrous metal. Aluminum parts (for example, covers) are accepted separately. The refrigerant from the tubes will evaporate on its own 1-2 days after opening the system, but if you want to dispose of it correctly, contact a specialized organization.

How to distinguish copper from other metals in a compressor

In a compressor Pozis in addition to copper you will find aluminum, steel and brass To avoid mistakes when sorting:

• 🔴 Copper —reddish tint, soft, bends well. It shines when cut. When oxidized, it becomes covered with a green coating.
• 🟡 Brass - yellowish color, harder than copper, makes a ringing sound when struck. Often used in tubes.
• ⚪ Aluminum —silver, lightweight, non-magnetic. In the compressor it is found in covers and some fasteners.
• ⚫ Steel/cast iron - gray color, magnetic, heavier than copper. The body and piston group are made of it.

🔍 Simple test: Take a piece of metal and try to bend it with pliers. Copper will bend without effort, brass with effort, steel will not bend at all. You can also scratch the surface: copper leaves a reddish mark.

⚠️ Attention: Can be used in the compressor winding copper with silver coating (for better conductivity). Such wires have a higher purity class and are more valuable. They can be identified by their characteristic silvery sheen.

Where is it more profitable to sell copper from the Pozis compressor

The price of copper depends on its purity, weight and current scrap metal market quotations. In 2026, estimated prices at collection points in Russia:

• 💰 Pure copper (wire, winding) — 600–850 rub/kg.
• 💰 Brass (pipes, fittings) — 300–450 rub/kg.
• 💰 Copper insulation (uncleaned wire) — 400–600 rub/kg (varnish or plastic reduces the price).

📍 Where to submit:

1. Large scrap metal collection points (for example, the networks "Vtorchermet", "Lom Tsvetmet"). The prices here are higher, but there are strict requirements for sorting.
2. Private buyers can offer a higher price, but the risk of running into scammers is higher. Check the reviews!
3. Specialized companies for recycling refrigerators - sometimes they buy entire compressors at a fixed price (about 1,000–1,500 rubles per piece, regardless of the weight of copper).

💡 Life hack: If you have several compressors, negotiate with the collection point about wholesale delivery - this way you can get a price 5-10% higher. Also, some companies offer bonuses for large quantities (from 10 kg of copper).

Alternative ways to use a compressor from Pozis

Do not rush to disassemble the compressor if you are not sure of the benefits. There are several ways to use it entirely:

• 🔧 Homemade compressor for painting or inflating wheels —if you have the skills, you can convert a refrigeration compressor into an air compressor. An oil change and modification of the cooling system will be required.
• 🌱 Pump for aerating water in a pond or aquarium - suitable for low-power models (up to 100 W).
• 🔥 Forge or kiln — the compressor housing can withstand high temperatures and can serve as the basis for a small furnace.
• 💡 Source of spare parts —relays, capacitors and valves from the compressor Pozis suitable for repairing other equipment.

⚠️ Attention: Converting a compressor into an air compressor requires knowledge in the field of pneumatics. Incorrect connection can lead to an explosion! If there is no experience, it is better to contact specialists or use the compressor only in normal mode (for example, for inflating tires at low pressure).

Common mistakes during disassembly and how to avoid them

Beginners often lose part of the copper or are injured due to incorrect actions. Here are the most common mistakes:

1. An attempt to saw through the body with a grinder — this leads to melting of the copper and loss of its weight. It is better to use a chisel.
2. Ignoring refrigerant residues - freon under pressure can cause burns. Always check the tubes for leaks before cutting.
3. Burning the winding indoors —varnish releases toxins when burned. Do this only on the street!
4. Confusing copper with brass - because of this, you can lose up to 30% of potential profit. Always check the metal for bending and color.
5. Working without gloves —sharp edges of the case and wire can cut your hands. Use thick gloves.

🔧 Tip: If you are disassembling the compressor for the first time, videotape the process. This will help to avoid mistakes when disassembling the following copies.

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions

How much can you earn on copper from one Pozis compressor?

With an average copper weight of 1.5–2 kg and price You will receive 700 rubles/kg 1,050–1,400 rubles for wrapping. Tubes (brass) will add another 200–400 rubles. Total: 1,250–1,800 rubles from one compressor. If you hand over the entire compressor, the amount will be less - about 800–1,200 rubles.

Is it possible to extract copper without burning the winding?

Yes, but it will take more time. The winding can be unwinded by hand or using a drill (fix the wire in the chuck and rotate slowly). The varnish is removed mechanically (with a knife or sandpaper) or chemically (with a solvent).

Which Pozis compressors contain the most copper?

The largest amount of copper is in models before 2010 (Pozis RK-185, RK-220) and in compressors with a power of 150 W or more. Inverter compressors (after 2018) contain 20–30% less copper.

What to do if there is freon left in the compressor?

Do not try to release it yourself - it is dangerous for health and the environment. Take the compressor to a refrigerator recycling center or call a dismantling specialist. Freon from household refrigerators (R134a, R600a) is not flammable, but can cause suffocation in a closed room.

Where can I find the compressor data plate if it is painted over?

Try to clean the plate with solvent or fine sandpaper. If the data is not readable, find the refrigerator model on the sticker inside the chamber or on the back wall and check the characteristics in the instructions.