What are Electric Motors?
Electric motors are a machine part that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy through a rotational force. This force is generated by the interaction of the motor’s magnetic field and the electric current that courses through it. Electric motors are used to power most of today’s machinery and appliances such as vacuum cleaners, electric drills and vehicles.
When it comes to the scrap electric motor family, there are several differences which produce different grades. Scrap electric motor prices vary depending on the composition of the motor (for instance cooper, aluminium or steel) and is often priced per kilogram.
COMMON USES OF ELECTRIC MOTORS
It would be difficult nowadays to come by a piece of machinery or an appliance that isn’t powered by an electric motor. Electric motors run everything from home appliances such as washing machines, dryers, refrigerators, and vacuums, to large industrial machinery such as vehicles, drill presses and saws.
Even power plugs that convert mains electricity to voltage power contain a small transformer which is classed as a form of an electric motor in the scrap metal industry.
Electric Motor Grades
There are six primary scrap electric motor grades that can be used to power the majority of commonly used appliances and machinery. These include:
- Contaminated electric motor scrap – these are motors that contain an excess of contaminants including wood, metal and plastic.
- Electric motor scrap – stock standard electric motors that are free from contaminants.
- Transformers – the type of electric motor that regulates the voltage of AC powered equipment.
- Compressors – similar to a pump, a compressor pressurises air to power air tools, turbines and locomotive instruments.
- High grade electric motors – this includes alternators and starter motors from vehicles such as cars and trucks.
- Copper recovery – these small copper wound electric motors have a lower copper recovery rate than non-conforming motors.
Tips for Scrapping Electric Motors Tip
When it comes time to sell, it is key to keep your scrap electric motor grades sorted and separated to ensure you are receiving the best price for each piece of electric motor scrap.
If you’re looking to buy or sell scrap electric motors, contact the team at King Scrap Metal today.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
There are six primary grades of electric motors which include:
- Contaminated electric motor scrap
- Electric motor scrap
- Transformers
- Compressors
- High grade electric motors
- Copper recovery
The amount of copper in an electric motor can vary between different motors. Smaller vehicles will have a higher percentage of copper per kilo than heavier or larger vehicles.
Yes. The components found in most scrap electric motors (such as copper, aluminium or steel) can be exchanged for cash and recycled. For the most competitive electric motor scrap prices, visit our metal scrap yard located in Embleton or contact us today for the latest price.