The question of the content of non-ferrous metals in old household appliances often arises not just out of idle curiosity, but planning disposal or scrapping of equipment. Soviet refrigerators, produced in an era when resource intensity was prioritized over economy, do contain significant amounts of valuable materials. The main interest here is copper, which is used in heat exchangers and compressors, as well as the steel that makes up the housing.
Understanding exactly how much copper is inside the unit allows owners to estimate the approximate cost of decommissioned equipment. However, it is worth considering that the exact numbers depend on the specific model, year of manufacture and design features. In this article we will analyze in detail where to look for non-ferrous metal and how to extract it correctly for maximum profit.
Where exactly is copper located in the structure
The main reservoir of valuable metal in any refrigerator, be it modern or Soviet, is compressor. It is in this unit that the electric motor windings, which are traditionally made of pure copper, are located. In older models, such as ZIL or Saratov, the windings were often made with a large margin of safety, which increased their weight compared to modern analogues.
The second important source is the evaporator and condenser circuit. In older models, produced before the mid-80s, heat exchanger tubes could be made of steel with subsequent copper plating or brass, but in high-quality series pure copper was also found. The highest copper content is typical for refrigerators with an open compressor and an external condenser in the form of a grid at the back.
The third element, which is often overlooked are the connecting tubes and capillaries. Although their total weight is small, during mass dismantling of a batch of equipment they can significantly affect the final result. It is also worth paying attention to the electrical wiring going to the thermostat and start relay, although they use predominantly aluminum with copper braiding.
⚠️ Attention: When trying to remove copper from the compressor, remember that there is oil inside that must be drained before cutting. In addition, some modern (already post-Soviet) models may have aluminum windings, which makes their dismantling pointless.
To accurately determine the type of metal in the tubes, you can use a magnet: copper and aluminum are not magnetic, while steel and iron react to a magnetic field. This is a simple way of primary sorting of scrap on site.
Factors influencing the weight of non-ferrous metal
The amount of copper in a particular refrigerator is not a constant value. It directly depends on the technological process that prevailed at the plant in the year of production. The period from 1970 to 1985 saw a peak in the use of non-ferrous metals, after which a gradual substitution began with cheaper alloys.
Compressor power also plays a key role. Double-chamber giants, such as Biryusa-14 or Atlant large volumes, were equipped with more powerful motors with massive windings. Single-chamber models, for example Oka or Morozko, contained significantly less copper due to the smaller volume of the chamber and, accordingly, a less powerful engine.
The technical condition of the unit is another important factor. If the refrigerator was repaired and the compressor was replaced or the circuit was overcooked, the original equipment may have been damaged. In such cases, instead of factory copper, there may be aluminum or steel inside.
Table: Approximate copper content in popular models
For ease of assessment, we present the average data obtained as a result of analyzing popular equipment. Figures may vary depending on the specific year of manufacture and modification.
| Refrigerator model | Compressor type | Weight of windings (g) | Weight of tubes (g) | Total weight of copper (gr) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZIL-64 | Open/Sealed | 900 - 1100 | 400 - 600 | 1300 - 1700 |
| Saratov-405 | Sealed | 700 - 850 | 300 - 500 | 1000 - 1350 |
| Biryusa-8 | Sealed | 600 - 750 | 250 - 400 | 850 - 1150 |
| Atlant MHM-1700 | Sealed | 500 - 650 | 200 - 350 | 700 - 1000 |
| Morozko-3 | Low-power | 300 - 450 | 100 - 200 | 400 - 650 |
The table shows that even in the “poorest” models The copper content amounts to hundreds of grams, and in large two-chamber models it can reach one and a half kilograms. This is a significant difference when handing over a large amount of equipment.
Why may the weight of the windings differ?
The weight of the windings depends on the energy efficiency class and year of production. Older motors used more metal to ensure durability, while in later models engineers sought to miniaturize and save resources without losing power.
Instructions for Safe Copper Mining
The process of extracting non-ferrous metal from old equipment requires compliance with certain safety rules and sequences of actions. Simply smashing the body with a sledgehammer is not the most effective or safe method.
The first step should always be to prepare the work area. You will need tools: a grinder with a metal disc, pliers, screwdrivers, a container for draining oil and protective gloves. Also, safety glasses will not hurt, since sparks and small particles fly when cutting metal.
☑️ Preparation for dismantling
Start by dismantling the compressor. It is located at the lower rear of the unit. Carefully saw through the copper tubes that go to it, being careful not to damage them if you plan to hand over the entire tubes. Then unscrew the mounting bolts or cut off the legs of the compressor.
The compressor itself must be opened. To do this, it is best to use a hacksaw or grinder, making a circular cut along the “equator” of the body. Inside you will see a stator with windings. It is this part, cleared of excess iron, that is sold as “mixed” or “burnt” copper (if the insulation is removed).
⚠️ Attention: Oil from the compressor is a waste petroleum product. It is strictly forbidden to pour it into the sewer or onto the ground. Collect the liquid in a sealed container and take it to a special hazardous waste collection point.
To remove the tubes from the evaporator, it is often necessary to dismantle the back wall of the refrigerator compartment. In older models, the evaporator could be frozen into the wall, which requires careful drilling or sawing out. Be careful not to damage the pipes if the goal is to maintain their integrity.
Economic feasibility and scrap prices
The cost of scrapping a refrigerator consists of the weight of ferrous metals (body) and non-ferrous metals (copper, aluminum). The price of scrap copper is significantly higher than that of steel, so separating the components is only economically justified when processing several pieces of equipment or having a powerful tool.
If you hand over the entire refrigerator, the receivers often rate it as “scrap household appliances” at a reduced rate, since they do not see the contents of the compressor. Self-cutting allows you to earn more, but requires time and effort.
Currently, the market dictates the following approximate prices (figures may vary depending on the region and exchange rates):
- 🔸 Copper (burnt, lump) - the highest price per kilogram.
- 🔸 Copper (mix, in winding) - the price is lower, as it requires additional cleaning.
- 🔸 Aluminum - costs much less than copper, but more expensive than steel.
- 🔸 Black scrap (housing) - the lowest cost.
Thus, the presence of even 700 grams of pure copper in the compressor Turk can increase the income from delivery of the unit by 15-20% compared to delivery in an unassembled form.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to determine the presence of copper without opening the compressor?
It is impossible to accurately determine the weight of copper inside a sealed compressor. However, you can weigh the compressor itself and compare it with the passport data or analogues. Copper is heavier than aluminum, so motors with copper windings usually have more weight for similar dimensions.
Does it make sense to hand over the entire old refrigerator?
If you don’t have tools for cutting or space to work, handing over the whole refrigerator is the best option. You'll save time and effort, although you'll make less money. Many collection points themselves deal with the recycling and extraction of non-ferrous metals.
Is copper from old refrigerators dangerous?
Copper itself is safe. However, when insulation from wires is burned (to form a burner), toxic substances are released. It is recommended to hand over copper in insulation or clean it mechanically, avoiding open fire.
Does the year of manufacture affect the amount of copper?
Yes, directly. Refrigerators made in the 70s and early 80s tend to contain more non-ferrous metals. In the late Soviet and post-Soviet period, the active introduction of substitutes and optimization of material consumption began.
What to do with freon during disassembly?
Freon must be vented before starting work. Although older models used relatively safe refrigerants, in modern conditions it is better to carry out this procedure in a ventilated room or outdoors, away from open fire, since when heated, some types of freon can form toxic compounds.