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Any info on breaking down large distribution transformers

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    Pike1990 started this thread.
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    Any info on breaking down large distribution transformers

    I have a chance to buy some of these. They are the large transformers that are on power poles. Some weight around 500 pounds. Does anyone know what the copper recovery percentage is? I have also heard that there could be harmful oil or chem in the body.
    Thanks for your help


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    Jonniebrass's Avatar
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    Google PCB


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    There was recently an episode on the Discovery channel on how transformers are made. I don't think there are any PCBs, the weight is mostly steel and mineral oil. They use quite a bit of aluminum sheet and copper which is bound with adhesive so it may be quite a job separating it. Anyway I think you will find this very usefull.

    Here's an attempt at putting in the video.http://science.discovery.com/videos/...nsformers.html
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    Filthy's Avatar
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    ^i was just about to post this^

    i would imagine you could get away with paying a bit less than motor price, due to the oil its filled with
    Last edited by Filthy; 05-17-2012 at 11:13 AM.
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    sjones99's Avatar
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    Older ones have pcbs and if you aren't licensed to dispose of them its a huge fine...some have also been rewound with aluminum. If they have pcbs they are considered hazardous waste.

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    I have read that the PCB filled transformers are usually painted black or a very dark grey. The normal light grey ones you see should be filled with mineral oil.

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    They also say that right on the tag, NON PCB.

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