microwave transformers!!

Originally Posted by jackshmuc

video where i bust open a microwave transformer with a hatchet (my favorite tool)
it is the fastest way i found to getting the copper out

THANK YOU sooooo much for that idea!

Good news first, I tried it last night on two transformers I've had for a while, looking for just such an easier method. My first try involved a prybar, a railroad spike, a coupla hammers, and a LOT of cussing. But I do have a hatchet head I have been hanging on to since I just couldn't bring myself to throw in with scrap iron. It did take more than two whacks (probably since I don't have the hickory handle ) but it did the job nicely all the same.



Bad news, though. ALL FOUR LOOPS were that copper coated aluminum.

So... I turned probably $3 worth of motor/transformer into maybe $1 worth of steel and a few cents worth of aluminum. Dangit, breaking down is supposed to INCREASE the value! LOL

Lesson learned. Check the wire prior to breakdown.

EDIT.... I just gave myself a chuckle.... those aluminum wire ones oughta be called decepticons. (groan)