Electric motor scrap is dismantled for copper steel and metal recovery.
Electric motor scrap is valuable for recycling due to its content of copper, steel, and aluminum. The specific value depends heavily on the motor’s size, type, and the current market prices for these metals, particularly copper.
Valuable Materials
Electric motors are a rich source of recoverable metals. The primary materials include:
Copper windings: This is the most valuable component, typically making up 7-18% of a motor’s total weight, and often accounts for a significant portion of its scrap value. A simple file test can identify copper by its reddish-brown color, as opposed to aluminum’s silver color.
Steel and iron housings/frames: These components make up the bulk of the motor’s weight (around 90%). While less valuable per pound than copper, the sheer volume contributes to the overall scrap value.
Aluminum parts: Motors may have aluminum end bells, fan covers, or sometimes even windings. Aluminum is another highly recyclable non-ferrous metal.
Rare earth magnets: Found in some modern motors (especially in electric vehicles and high-efficiency applications), these magnets can be valuable and require specialized recycling processes.
Types of Motors and Their Value
The value of electric motor scrap varies by the type and size of the motor:
Small (Fractional HP) Motors: Found in small appliances and power tools, these may have less copper and may not be worth the effort of dismantling. It is often better to sell them whole to a scrap yard.
Medium Motors: Common in household appliances like washing machines, refrigerators, and air conditioning units, these generally offer a good balance of copper content and manageable size for handling.
Large Industrial Motors: Used in heavy machinery, pumps, and conveyor systems, these are the most valuable due to their substantial size and high copper content, although they can be difficult to dismantle.
Automotive Motors: Starters and alternators often have a high (15-18%) copper content, making them particularly valuable scrap items.
