A copper refrigerator compressor is a real find for those who collect non-ferrous metals or want to make money by recycling old equipment. But exactly how much copper is hiding inside the engine? The answer depends on the model, type of compressor, and even the year of manufacture of the device. In this article we will figure out how to calculate the weight of copper different refrigerators, which parts contain metal, and how to safely remove it without risk to health.
Many people mistakenly think that copper in a refrigerator is only in the radiator tubes. In fact, the main “treasure” is hidden in winding of the compressor electric motor, where copper wire can weigh from 300 grams to 1.5 kg, depending on the power. And if you take into account the capacitor, start relay and connecting cables, the amount increases by another 100–300 grams. But how can you avoid making mistakes in your calculations and running into a fake? Let's look at it in order.
⚠️ Attention: Prices for scrap copper change daily. Before delivery, check the current rates at the collection points in your region - they may differ from the market average by 10–30%.
1. What parts of the refrigerator contain copper?
Not all copper in the refrigerator is equally valuable. The main sources of metal are distributed as follows:
- 🔧 Compressor winding —the “heaviest” part. Here it is used enameled copper wire with a diameter of 0.5–1.2 mm. Weight depends on power: in low-power models (Turkish, Minsk) - up to 500 g, in industrial models - up to 1.5 kg.
- 🔌 The starting relay and capacitor —contain copper contacts and winding (50–150 g). In old-style relays (before the 2000s), there is more copper than in modern electronic ones.
- 🌀 Cooling circuit tubes are usually aluminum, but in Soviet refrigerators (ZIL, Saratov) there are copper ones. Weight: 200–800 g.
- ⚡ Connecting wires —thin wires in insulation. There is little copper (20–100 g), but if the refrigerator is large, the amount will increase.
The most valuable element is rotor and stator windings compressor. It is its weight that determines whether it is worth disassembling at all. For example, in a compressor Danfoss SC10G (installed in Atlant, Stinol) there is about 600–700 g of copper, and in Embraco EGX90HLC (for LG, Samsung) - up to 1 kg.
⚠️ Attention: In modern inverter compressors (after 2015) there is 15–20% less copper than in classic ones. This is due to the use of thinner wire and optimization of the design.
2. How much copper is in the compressors of popular refrigerators?
To avoid guessing, we collected data on the most common models. Weight is indicated for pure copper (without insulation and other impurities):
| Refrigerator model | Compressor type | Weight of copper in the winding, g | Additionally (relays, wires), g |
|---|---|---|---|
| Atlant MHM-1705 | Danfoss SC10G | 600–650 | 80–120 |
| Indesit DF 4180 | Embraco EGX90HLC | 800–900 | 100–150 |
| Stinol STN 167 | Secop (DWM) SC15G | 500–550 | 70–100 |
| Biryusa 10 (Soviet) | HKV-6 | 400–450 | 200–300 (copper tubes) |
| LG GA-B419 SLGL | LG Inverter Linear | 350–400 | 50–80 |
As can be seen from the table, in old Soviet refrigerators (Biryusa, ZIL) there may be more copper due to the copper tubes of the circuit. In modern models (LG, Samsung), manufacturers save on materials, so the winding weight is less.
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3. How to remove copper from a compressor: step-by-step instructions
Disassembling a compressor is a labor-intensive and potentially dangerous process. Here's what you'll need:
- 🔨 Grinder or hacksaw.
- 🛠️ Pliers, screwdrivers, hammer.
- 🧤 Gloves and goggles (required! Splinters and oil splashes dangerous).
- 🔥 Gas burner (for burning insulation).
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Disconnect the refrigerator from the network at least 24 hours in advance|Drain the oil from the compressor (it is toxic!)|Secure the compressor in a vice or on a table|Prepare a container to collect copper-->
Step 1. Removing the compressor cover
The compressor is a sealed steel housing. To get to the winding, you need to saw off the top part with a grinder or cut it off with a hacksaw. Do not try to open it with a hammer - this will lead to deformation of the copper! Make the cut carefully, stepping back 1-2 cm from the seams.
Step 2. Removing the rotor and stator
After opening you will see:
- Stator —an outer ring-shaped element with a winding.
- Rotor —an internal shaft, also with copper wire.
Both elements are attached to the body with bolts or rivets. They must be carefully removed with pliers.
Step 3. Removing the insulation
The copper wire is covered with enamel insulation. To remove it, use:
- Mechanical method: wipe the wire with sandpaper or pass it through a cloth.
- Thermal method: briefly burn the wire with a torch (the insulation will burn, the copper will remain clean).
⚠️ Attention: When heated, toxic fumes are released - work outdoors or in a well-ventilated area!
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4. How to clean copper from impurities and prepare it for delivery?
Scrap metal collection points accept copper only in its pure form. Here's how to prepare it:
- Remove any remaining insulation. If traces of enamel remain after firing, soak the wire in a solvent (acetone, white spirit) for 10-15 minutes, then wipe.
- Sort by cleanliness. Copper can be:
- Clean (shiny, without oxidation) - the most expensive.
- With traces patina (green coating) - requires cleaning with vinegar or citric acid.
- With solder (if there were solderings) - it is accepted cheaper.
- Compress or twist. Reception points often pay more for compact batches. Use a press or pliers to reduce the volume.
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How to distinguish copper from brass?
Saw the edge of the wire: copper is pinkish-red, brass is yellow. Also, copper bends easier, and brass is more fragile.
⚠️ Attention: Some collection points test copper with a magnet. If the wire sticks, it is not pure copper, but an alloy (for example, with iron). Such a batch will be accepted at the price of scrap ferrous metals.
5. How much can you earn on copper from the refrigerator?
Income depends on three factors:
1. Weight of pure copper.
2. Current price for scrap.
3. Method of delivery (wholesale is cheaper, but easier to hand over to the nearest point).
Let's look at the example of a compressor Danfoss SC10G (600 g of copper):
- Price for 1 kg of pure copper in 2026: 700–900 rubles (depending on the region).
- Weight of your batch: 0.6 kg.
- Potential income: 420–540 rubles.
Minus the cost of tools (if they are not available) and time for disassembly.
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6. Alternative ways to use copper from the refrigerator
It is not necessary to scrap copper. Here are some ideas on how to use it:
- 🔌 Homemade coils and transformers. Copper wire from a compressor is suitable for winding chokes, electromagnets or even mini-generators.
- 🎨 Art products. Sculptures, bracelets or decorative elements (for example, coasters) are made from thick wire hot).
- 🔋 Electronics repair. Thin wire is useful for soldering circuit boards, replacing cords or making adapters.
- 🌱 Gardening. Copper sprayers or nets protect plants from slugs and fungi.
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How to make a homemade induction heater?
To do this you will need copper wire with a diameter of 1–1.5 mm (it can be obtained from a compressor), a ferrite ring and a power source. The assembly diagram is available on amateur radio forums, but requires knowledge in electrical engineering!
7. Risks and precautions when working with compressors
Disassembling a compressor is an unsafe activity. Here are the main dangers and how to avoid them:
- 💥 Oil explosion. Refrigerant and oil under pressure remain in the compressor. Before sawing required drill a hole in the housing to vent the gas.
- 🔥 Fire during firing. The insulation burns with the release of acrid smoke. Burn the wire outdoors, away from flammable objects.
- 🩺 Cuts and injuries. The edges of the sawn compressor are razor-sharp. Wear gloves and use safety glasses.
- ☠️ Toxic fumes. Oil from the compressor contains harmful additives. Do not inhale fumes and wash your hands after work.
⚠️ Attention: If the compressor has been left outside for a long time, condensation may have accumulated inside, which increases the risk of copper corrosion. Before disassembling, dry it in a warm room for 1-2 days.
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FAQ: Frequently asked questions about copper in refrigerators
Is it possible to remove copper from a working refrigerator?
No. The compressor is a sealed system. Disassembling it will lead to refrigerant leakage and damage to the refrigerator. Copper is extracted only from faulty or decommissioned devices.
How to distinguish an aluminum compressor from a copper one?
Aluminum compressors are lighter (case weight up to 5 kg) and are usually installed in budget models after 2010. Copper ones are heavier (from 7 kg), with a characteristic reddish tint on the contacts.
How much does it cost to scrap the entire refrigerator?
The price for the entire refrigerator (without disassembly) is 1,000–3,000 rubles, depending on the weight and region. But if you separate copper, aluminum and steel, the amount will increase by 30–50%.
Is it possible to remove copper from the refrigerator control board?
Theoretically it is possible, but it is not profitable. The boards use thin foil (5–20 g of copper for the entire block), and the time for soldering will not recoup the income.
Which compressors contain the maximum amount of copper?
The leaders are:
- Soviet XKV-8 (up to 1.2 kg of copper).
- Danfoss SC18 (up to 900 g).
- Embraco EGX120 (up to 1 kg).
In inverter models there is 20–30% less copper.