RECYCLING ELECTRIC MOTORS

Posted on April 04, 2019

When you recycle household appliances, did you know the electric motor is a prime candidate for scrap recycling? Since electric motors are mostly comprised of metallic components, mainly copper and aluminum, they are almost 100% recyclable.

Where are electric motors used?

Electric motors convert electrical energy into mechanical energy. At home, you can find electric motors in common appliances like washing machines, fans, air conditioners, and refrigerators, or in power tools.

Industrial electric motors are a crucial part of transformers, pumps, and machinery.

Recycling metal from electric motors

Most electric motors are processed in a shredder, which rips apart their outer shells to expose highly sought copper and aluminum.

Did you know?

In the scrap metal industry, a shredded electric motor is called a meatball.

Copper is a naturally occurring element with high thermal and electrical conductivity. Aluminum is low in density and highly resistant to corrosion. Recycling motors protects natural resources and reduces solid waste in landfills.

Recycle your electric motors at one of Metro Recycling’s three locations: Valparaiso, Griffith, or Blue Island, Illinois, and get paid to recycle!