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Metalworking (rec.crafts.metalworking) Discuss various aspects of working with metal, such as machining, welding, metal joining, screwing, casting, hardening/tempering, blacksmithing/forging, spinning and hammer work, sheet metal work. |
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Taking apart a large transformer
"Ignoramus22732" wrote in message ... I am demolishing a huge 8 kVa UPS. Lots of nice wires, screws etc. It has a large transformer, it weighs around 200 lbs. It comes from a that 8 KVA Ferrups UPS. There is a super heavy square shaped copper wire on it, which, I fancy, could sell for some money. This wire is something like 3x8 mm in cross section. Very heavy stuff. So, if I somehow manage to pull the transformer apart, I would, first, able to throw the steel part to garbage, and second, to get and sell copper wire. i would also keep some of this copper wire for home uses such as grounding wire for my generator. Without taking it apart I will not be able to do anything with this monstrosity, not even throw it away. This is a specialty transformer with lots of contacts, so I do not think that I could sell it. (another, smaller like 50 lbs transformer is an isolation transformer which I hope to sell for at least something. Also, there are 8 1.2 farad capacitors) So... How do I take it apart? It was assembled from steel plates, can it be therefore disassembled? i Here in upstate NY, an entire lake was contaminated with PCBs by some guy "salvaging" transformers at the shoreline. The fish are no longer safe to eat. You may want to investigate further what may be inside that transformer of yours before disassembling it. Perhaps your state's environmental conservation department, or local department of solid waste could assist in finding out more. Or, the manufacturer. |
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"Doug Kanter" wrote:
Here in upstate NY, an entire lake was contaminated with PCBs by some guy "salvaging" transformers at the shoreline. The fish are no longer safe to eat. You may want to investigate further what may be inside that transformer of yours before disassembling it. Perhaps your state's environmental conservation department, or local department of solid waste could assist in finding out more. Or, the manufacturer. How many transformers do you have in your house, Doug? How many of those contain PCBs? What types of transformers used PCBs, and what was the purpose for the PCBs? Jon |
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"Ignoramus22732" wrote in message ... On Mon, 3 Jan 2005 12:04:05 -0600, Tim Williams wrote: snip----- Hm, I assumed, perhaps incorrectly, that transformer steel is not worth anything. Should I call some scrap yards? Suppose that I have 150 lbs of transformer steel. Are we talking about a $5 value, $10, $100 etc? Cores for transformers are generally made from carbon free iron (Armco iron) so there's no chance that the core can become permanently magnetized. Heat treated steel has the ability to retain magnetism, whereas carbon free material does not. Scrap steel is selling for $85/ton right now, and they'll likely see it as scrap steel. If not, perhaps they'll pay either light steel prices or cast iron prices. Regardless, it has value. Doesn't everything, if you have enough of it? Am I correct though, that the large copper wires are worth something? Yep, right now they're worth $1.02/lb. Here's a link that will tell you current market scrap prices. http://www.recycle.net/price/metals.html Harold |
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On 1/3/2005 1:37 PM US(ET), Jon Danniken took fingers to keys, and typed
the following: "Doug Kanter" wrote: Here in upstate NY, an entire lake was contaminated with PCBs by some guy "salvaging" transformers at the shoreline. The fish are no longer safe to eat. You may want to investigate further what may be inside that transformer of yours before disassembling it. Perhaps your state's environmental conservation department, or local department of solid waste could assist in finding out more. Or, the manufacturer. How many transformers do you have in your house, Doug? How many of those contain PCBs? What types of transformers used PCBs, and what was the purpose for the PCBs? Jon http://www.ehso.com/PCB_App_A.htm -- Bill |
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"Jon Danniken" wrote in message ... "Doug Kanter" wrote: Here in upstate NY, an entire lake was contaminated with PCBs by some guy "salvaging" transformers at the shoreline. The fish are no longer safe to eat. You may want to investigate further what may be inside that transformer of yours before disassembling it. Perhaps your state's environmental conservation department, or local department of solid waste could assist in finding out more. Or, the manufacturer. How many transformers do you have in your house, Doug? How many of those contain PCBs? What types of transformers used PCBs, and what was the purpose for the PCBs? Jon Question 1: Doesn't matter. I have no intention of disassembling them. Question 2: Probably none, but none of the transformers in my home are older than 3-4 years, except the tiny one that handles the doorbell. I doubt PCB's are permitted in small household transformers at this stage, considering what we know about them. Question 3: The oil in older, larger transformers was there for either cooling or insulation - I don't recall, and it doesn't matter, since it's just a point of interest. But, the PCBs were there as a byproduct, not because they had a purpose. What's YOUR point? That, knowing what we do about these chemicals, we should be stupid, pretend the knowledge doesn't exist, and be careless? |
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"Doug Kanter" wrote:
"Jon Danniken" wrote: "Doug Kanter" wrote: Here in upstate NY, an entire lake was contaminated with PCBs by some guy "salvaging" transformers at the shoreline. The fish are no longer safe to eat. You may want to investigate further what may be inside that transformer of yours before disassembling it. Perhaps your state's environmental conservation department, or local department of solid waste could assist in finding out more. Or, the manufacturer. How many transformers do you have in your house, Doug? How many of those contain PCBs? What types of transformers used PCBs, and what was the purpose for the PCBs? Jon Question 1: Doesn't matter. I have no intention of disassembling them. Question 2: Probably none, but none of the transformers in my home are older than 3-4 years, except the tiny one that handles the doorbell. I doubt PCB's are permitted in small household transformers at this stage, considering what we know about them. Question 3: The oil in older, larger transformers was there for either cooling or insulation - I don't recall, and it doesn't matter, since it's just a point of interest. But, the PCBs were there as a byproduct, not because they had a purpose. What's YOUR point? That, knowing what we do about these chemicals, we should be stupid, pretend the knowledge doesn't exist, and be careless? My point is that I suspected you of being a reactionary man who is unable to consider a topic rationally, based upon the facts in evidence, without launching into a pre-programmed tirade based upon emotional supposition and lack of knowledge. That you are unwilling to answer the very basic questions that I asked you WRT transformers further demonstrates this, and I thank you for further revealing yourself with your response. I can't "fix" the problems that you seem determined to expose to the world, Doug,, but perhaps you would be a bit better off it you would at least educate yourself a bit before exposing your ignorance in any particular area of knowledge. Of course, you might very well enjoy espousing your ignorance to the world; it seems to be a popular pastime with your type. Jon |
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On 3 Jan 2005 18:29:17 GMT, Ignoramus22732
wrote: Hm, all that is inside this transformer is steel, copper, varnish, and paper. Maybe you are referring to hyooge transformers filled with liquids? In any case, I will appreciate input regarding this issue, as I do not want to run afoul of the laws. PCB's are found in utility transformers immersed in a dielectric fluid. It's not an issue with dry transformers like yours. |
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"Ignoramus22732" wrote in message ... On Mon, 3 Jan 2005 10:49:43 -0800, Harold & Susan Vordos wrote: "Ignoramus22732" wrote in message ... On Mon, 3 Jan 2005 12:04:05 -0600, Tim Williams wrote: snip----- Hm, I assumed, perhaps incorrectly, that transformer steel is not worth anything. Should I call some scrap yards? Suppose that I have 150 lbs of transformer steel. Are we talking about a $5 value, $10, $100 etc? Cores for transformers are generally made from carbon free iron (Armco iron) so there's no chance that the core can become permanently magnetized. Heat treated steel has the ability to retain magnetism, whereas carbon free material does not. Scrap steel is selling for $85/ton right now, and they'll likely see it as scrap steel. If not, perhaps they'll pay either light steel prices or cast iron prices. Regardless, it has value. Doesn't everything, if you have enough of it? So, best case, $5 or so for the core. Not worth even opening yellow pages. Am I correct though, that the large copper wires are worth something? Yep, right now they're worth $1.02/lb. Here's a link that will tell you current market scrap prices. http://www.recycle.net/price/metals.html Now, that's not bad at all. Thanks. Should I look up yellow pages under recycling, or perhaps find a buyer for bare copper wire on ebay? Again, in any case I will keep a substantial quantity for my future projects. One current project would use this for generator ground. i I can't imagine you'd have much advantage trying to sell the copper on ebay. You'd likely lose money on the deal by the time you paid for the listing. Look in the yellow pages for yards that recycle metals. When you find the right one, you should be able to sell the copper and the iron at the same time. It's not much money for the iron, but it will pay for the gas for your trip, so take it along, anyway, or ask them by telephone if they accept such things, and what they pay. It doesn't hurt to ask each yard what they pay. Some pay more than others. Harold |
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"Doug Kanter" wrote:
Question 3: The oil in older, larger transformers was there for either cooling or insulation - I don't recall, and it doesn't matter, since it's just a point of interest. But, the PCBs were there as a byproduct, not because they had a purpose. Nope. The chemicals were there to facilitate heat transfer, especially in larger grid transformers. Needless to say, non-conductive liquids with a high boiling point are required for the task. http://www.ehso.com/EHSO_PCB.htm Characteristics and Uses of PCBs PCBs belong to a family of organic compounds known as chlorinated hydrocarbons. Key characteristics include: high boiling point, high degree of chemical stability, low flammability, and low electric conductivity. Between 1926-29 and 1977, PCB-containing products were manufactured for use in applications where stable, fire-resistant, heat-transfer properties were demanded. The most extensive use of PCBs occurred in dielectric fluids. Such fluids typically have the following characteristics: a heavy oil appearance, high boiling point, high chemical stability, high flash point, low electrical conductivity, and low water solubility. PCBs were also used as plasticizers and additives in lubricating and cutting fluids. Most PCBs were sold for use as dielectric fluids (insulating liquids) in electric transformers and capacitors. Other uses included heat transfer fluid, hydraulic fluid, dye carriers in carbonless copy paper, plasticizers in paints, adhesives, and caulking compounds, and filters in investment casting wax. Although PCBs are no longer commercially made in the United States, many electric transformers and capacitors once filled with PCBs are still in service. Additionally, PCBs currently are being inadvertently produced as byproducts during the manufacture of certain organic chemicals. PCB Manufacturers and Trade Names lists some of the manufacturers, who made PCBs and the trade names of their products. Why Are PCBs Harmful to Human Health and the Environment When released into the environment, PCBs do not easily break apart and form new chemical arrangements (i.e., they are not readily biodegradable). Instead they persist for many years, bioaccumulate, and bioconcentrate in organisms. Well documented tests on laboratory animals show that various levels of PCBs cause reproductive effects, gastric disorders, skin lesions, and cancerous tumors. Exposure to PCBs in humans can cause chloracne (a painful, disfiguring skin ailment), liver damage, nausea, dizziness, eye irritation, and bronchitis. |
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Ignoramus22732 wrote:
It has a large transformer, it weighs around 200 lbs. It comes from a that 8 KVA Ferrups UPS. There is a super heavy square shaped copper wire on it, which, I fancy, could sell for some money. Why not offer the whole thing to a scrap-metal dealer? When they melt it down they'll recover the different metals... So... How do I take it apart? It was assembled from steel plates, can it be therefore disassembled? Yeah, remove any bolts, and start splitting the iron core segments apart (they are probably alternating meshed E and I pieces). Once you get the first few out the rest will come easier. I'd use an appropriately sized screwdriver and hammer... |
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"Jon Danniken" wrote in message
... "Doug Kanter" wrote: "Jon Danniken" wrote: "Doug Kanter" wrote: Here in upstate NY, an entire lake was contaminated with PCBs by some guy "salvaging" transformers at the shoreline. The fish are no longer safe to eat. You may want to investigate further what may be inside that transformer of yours before disassembling it. Perhaps your state's environmental conservation department, or local department of solid waste could assist in finding out more. Or, the manufacturer. How many transformers do you have in your house, Doug? How many of those contain PCBs? What types of transformers used PCBs, and what was the purpose for the PCBs? Jon Question 1: Doesn't matter. I have no intention of disassembling them. Question 2: Probably none, but none of the transformers in my home are older than 3-4 years, except the tiny one that handles the doorbell. I doubt PCB's are permitted in small household transformers at this stage, considering what we know about them. Question 3: The oil in older, larger transformers was there for either cooling or insulation - I don't recall, and it doesn't matter, since it's just a point of interest. But, the PCBs were there as a byproduct, not because they had a purpose. What's YOUR point? That, knowing what we do about these chemicals, we should be stupid, pretend the knowledge doesn't exist, and be careless? My point is that I suspected you of being a reactionary man who is unable to consider a topic rationally, based upon the facts in evidence, without launching into a pre-programmed tirade based upon emotional supposition and lack of knowledge. That you are unwilling to answer the very basic questions that I asked you WRT transformers further demonstrates this, and I thank you for further revealing yourself with your response. I can't "fix" the problems that you seem determined to expose to the world, Doug,, but perhaps you would be a bit better off it you would at least educate yourself a bit before exposing your ignorance in any particular area of knowledge. Of course, you might very well enjoy espousing your ignorance to the world; it seems to be a popular pastime with your type. Jon Reactionary? Nonsense. The OP stated that he has a transformer weighing around 200 lbs. While this does not necessarily mean it's different from the one in my furnace, dishwasher or doorbell, it also does not mean it's the same. Neither you nor I know exactly what he has. You know that. As far as "rational", I'm sure you're aware that there's an entire generation that has no idea what sort of chemistry experiments went on in this country before people finally woke up. Perhaps the Love Canal situation was the wakeup call. It's entirely possible that the OP had NO idea about what he might have in his possession. Why do you have a problem with suggesting that he proceed with caution? Do you believe that all the research into the dangers of PCBs are junk science? |
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"Doug Kanter" wrote in message ... snip------- Question 3: The oil in older, larger transformers was there for either cooling or insulation - I don't recall, and it doesn't matter, since it's just a point of interest. But, the PCBs were there as a byproduct, not because they had a purpose. They were intentionally used. As I understand it, PCB revolutionized the transformer and capacitor industry when they were introduced. I seem to recall that they were an excellent dielectric and had a very high flash point, so fire hazards were reduced. They were a purpose made substance sold under various trade names. What's YOUR point? That, knowing what we do about these chemicals, we should be stupid, pretend the knowledge doesn't exist, and be careless? All you have to do is end up with a PCB filled transformer as I did for this to come directly in to focus. Years ago I was given a "free" induction furnace power supply. The donor had me sign a waiver because the supply had a mercury spark gap included, but failed to mention that the transformer, along with the huge capacitors, were filled with PCB's. The law as stated at that time dictated that if any PCB filled device started leaking, it was mandatory for the item to be disposed of by within thirty day by proper procedures. I had to transport the power supply from one state to another, and when it got there there were multiple wet spots from the escaping PCB. Long story short, I talked to EPA to find out where I stood and found out that it was illegal to dispose of such items by passing them on to others, so I called the "donor" and informed him that he had a serious problem on his hands. Disposal cost ran right at $3,000 for 800 pounds of transformer and capacitors, which was born by the donor. Don't take PCB's lightly. Harold |
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"Harold & Susan Vordos" wrote in message ... "Doug Kanter" wrote in message ... snip------- Question 3: The oil in older, larger transformers was there for either cooling or insulation - I don't recall, and it doesn't matter, since it's just a point of interest. But, the PCBs were there as a byproduct, not because they had a purpose. They were intentionally used. As I understand it, PCB revolutionized the transformer and capacitor industry when they were introduced. I seem to recall that they were an excellent dielectric and had a very high flash point, so fire hazards were reduced. They were a purpose made substance sold under various trade names. What's YOUR point? That, knowing what we do about these chemicals, we should be stupid, pretend the knowledge doesn't exist, and be careless? All you have to do is end up with a PCB filled transformer as I did for this to come directly in to focus. Years ago I was given a "free" induction furnace power supply. The donor had me sign a waiver because the supply had a mercury spark gap included, but failed to mention that the transformer, along with the huge capacitors, were filled with PCB's. The law as stated at that time dictated that if any PCB filled device started leaking, it was mandatory for the item to be disposed of by within thirty day by proper procedures. I had to transport the power supply from one state to another, and when it got there there were multiple wet spots from the escaping PCB. Long story short, I talked to EPA to find out where I stood and found out that it was illegal to dispose of such items by passing them on to others, so I called the "donor" and informed him that he had a serious problem on his hands. Disposal cost ran right at $3,000 for 800 pounds of transformer and capacitors, which was born by the donor. Don't take PCB's lightly. Harold You mean all the research was not fiction created by left-wing atheist tree-hugging hippies? :-) |
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"Ignoramus22732" wrote in message ... I have some large capacitors also, how do I know if they have PCBs? i These are likely candidates for PCB, depending on their age. They should be labelled with a date code; anything prior to 1973 will contain PCB. If you care to post all the capacitor label information here, I can probably determine yes or no. -- Regards, Chas. To Email, replace 'xxx' with tango papa golf. |
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Doug Kanter wrote:
"Ignoramus22732" wrote in message ... I am demolishing a huge 8 kVa UPS. Lots of nice wires, screws etc. It has a large transformer, it weighs around 200 lbs. It comes from a that 8 KVA Ferrups UPS. There is a super heavy square shaped copper wire on it, which, I fancy, could sell for some money. This wire is something like 3x8 mm in cross section. Very heavy stuff. So, if I somehow manage to pull the transformer apart, I would, first, able to throw the steel part to garbage, and second, to get and sell copper wire. i would also keep some of this copper wire for home uses such as grounding wire for my generator. Without taking it apart I will not be able to do anything with this monstrosity, not even throw it away. This is a specialty transformer with lots of contacts, so I do not think that I could sell it. (another, smaller like 50 lbs transformer is an isolation transformer which I hope to sell for at least something. Also, there are 8 1.2 farad capacitors) So... How do I take it apart? It was assembled from steel plates, can it be therefore disassembled? i Here in upstate NY, an entire lake was contaminated with PCBs by some guy "salvaging" transformers at the shoreline. The fish are no longer safe to eat. You may want to investigate further what may be inside that transformer of yours before disassembling it. Perhaps your state's environmental conservation department, or local department of solid waste could assist in finding out more. Or, the manufacturer. I thought PCB's were only used as a liquid insulating and cooling substance, like for instance in the big cans up on the telephone poles and substations. I imagine this thing does not involve any PCB'sdue to the way he describes it as being in the open versus being submerged in an oily liquid |
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On Mon, 03 Jan 2005 18:20:58 GMT, "Doug Kanter"
wrote: "Ignoramus22732" wrote in message ... I am demolishing a huge 8 kVa UPS. Lots of nice wires, screws etc. It has a large transformer, it weighs around 200 lbs. It comes from a that 8 KVA Ferrups UPS. There is a super heavy square shaped copper wire on it, which, I fancy, could sell for some money. This wire is something like 3x8 mm in cross section. Very heavy stuff. So, if I somehow manage to pull the transformer apart, I would, first, able to throw the steel part to garbage, and second, to get and sell copper wire. i would also keep some of this copper wire for home uses such as grounding wire for my generator. Without taking it apart I will not be able to do anything with this monstrosity, not even throw it away. This is a specialty transformer with lots of contacts, so I do not think that I could sell it. (another, smaller like 50 lbs transformer is an isolation transformer which I hope to sell for at least something. Also, there are 8 1.2 farad capacitors) So... How do I take it apart? It was assembled from steel plates, can it be therefore disassembled? i Here in upstate NY, an entire lake was contaminated with PCBs by some guy "salvaging" transformers at the shoreline. The fish are no longer safe to eat. You may want to investigate further what may be inside that transformer of yours before disassembling it. Perhaps your state's environmental conservation department, or local department of solid waste could assist in finding out more. Or, the manufacturer. From OP's original description I don't think that's a problem here. The PCBs are in the oil in some transformers. If the transformer wasn't immersed in an oil bath, no problem. (If there was oil in this thing there's a significant problem. Not only do PCBs contaminate the environment, they can give you a nasty skin condition if you handle a quantity of them.) --RC "Sometimes history doesn't repeat itself. It just yells 'can't you remember anything I've told you?' and lets fly with a club. -- John W. Cambell Jr. |
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On Mon, 3 Jan 2005 10:37:23 -0800, "Jon Danniken"
wrote: "Doug Kanter" wrote: Here in upstate NY, an entire lake was contaminated with PCBs by some guy "salvaging" transformers at the shoreline. The fish are no longer safe to eat. You may want to investigate further what may be inside that transformer of yours before disassembling it. Perhaps your state's environmental conservation department, or local department of solid waste could assist in finding out more. Or, the manufacturer. How many transformers do you have in your house, Doug? How many of those contain PCBs? What types of transformers used PCBs, and what was the purpose for the PCBs? Jon When someone refers to a 'large' transformer, it's reasonable to ask if there was any oil in it. The pole mounted transformers utilities use used to have PCBs in them, for example. However in this case there wasn't any oil, so no problem. --RC "Sometimes history doesn't repeat itself. It just yells 'can't you remember anything I've told you?' and lets fly with a club. -- John W. Cambell Jr. |
#18
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"Steven" wrote in message news:%jjCd.22850$rL3.9862@trnddc03... Doug Kanter wrote: "Ignoramus22732" wrote in message ... I am demolishing a huge 8 kVa UPS. Lots of nice wires, screws etc. It has a large transformer, it weighs around 200 lbs. It comes from a that 8 KVA Ferrups UPS. There is a super heavy square shaped copper wire on it, which, I fancy, could sell for some money. This wire is something like 3x8 mm in cross section. Very heavy stuff. So, if I somehow manage to pull the transformer apart, I would, first, able to throw the steel part to garbage, and second, to get and sell copper wire. i would also keep some of this copper wire for home uses such as grounding wire for my generator. Without taking it apart I will not be able to do anything with this monstrosity, not even throw it away. This is a specialty transformer with lots of contacts, so I do not think that I could sell it. (another, smaller like 50 lbs transformer is an isolation transformer which I hope to sell for at least something. Also, there are 8 1.2 farad capacitors) So... How do I take it apart? It was assembled from steel plates, can it be therefore disassembled? i Here in upstate NY, an entire lake was contaminated with PCBs by some guy "salvaging" transformers at the shoreline. The fish are no longer safe to eat. You may want to investigate further what may be inside that transformer of yours before disassembling it. Perhaps your state's environmental conservation department, or local department of solid waste could assist in finding out more. Or, the manufacturer. I thought PCB's were only used as a liquid insulating and cooling substance, like for instance in the big cans up on the telephone poles and substations. I imagine this thing does not involve any PCB'sdue to the way he describes it as being in the open versus being submerged in an oily liquid Some others who have responded have indicated that the capacitors may contain PCBs. I simply threw out the other possibility because it's worth looking into, especially because knowledge costs nothing. |
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Is there some particular reason you can't use the UPS as it was
origionally intended? I bought a 14 kva unit on Ebay for $41 and after $125 for new batteries have unit powering my electronic assembly pick-and place machine at 230 VAC. I can pull the plug and the machine just keeps on running. If it only lacks batteries, it is worth at least $50. The input/output are changed by internal wiring plus software parameters. Just wondering, Paul Ignoramus22732 wrote: I am demolishing a huge 8 kVa UPS. Lots of nice wires, screws etc. It has a large transformer, it weighs around 200 lbs. It comes from a that 8 KVA Ferrups UPS. There is a super heavy square shaped copper wire on it, which, I fancy, could sell for some money. This wire is something like 3x8 mm in cross section. Very heavy stuff. So, if I somehow manage to pull the transformer apart, I would, first, able to throw the steel part to garbage, and second, to get and sell copper wire. i would also keep some of this copper wire for home uses such as grounding wire for my generator. Without taking it apart I will not be able to do anything with this monstrosity, not even throw it away. This is a specialty transformer with lots of contacts, so I do not think that I could sell it. (another, smaller like 50 lbs transformer is an isolation transformer which I hope to sell for at least something. Also, there are 8 1.2 farad capacitors) So... How do I take it apart? It was assembled from steel plates, can it be therefore disassembled? i |
#20
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Jesus guyz. The friggin' thing is a "dry-type" transformer! There are no
(read my lips) ***NO*** PCBs in a dry type transformer. The copper isn't worth more than 5 cents per pound. It is classed a mixed copper and nobody wants it. The laminations are usually and E and an I type on each layer reversed positioned for each layer. "willshak" wrote in message ... On 1/3/2005 1:37 PM US(ET), Jon Danniken took fingers to keys, and typed the following: "Doug Kanter" wrote: Here in upstate NY, an entire lake was contaminated with PCBs by some guy "salvaging" transformers at the shoreline. The fish are no longer safe to eat. You may want to investigate further what may be inside that transformer of yours before disassembling it. Perhaps your state's environmental conservation department, or local department of solid waste could assist in finding out more. Or, the manufacturer. How many transformers do you have in your house, Doug? How many of those contain PCBs? What types of transformers used PCBs, and what was the purpose for the PCBs? Jon http://www.ehso.com/PCB_App_A.htm -- Bill |
#21
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There is no liquid in a "dry-type" transforemt and therefore no PCBs
PCB were only used in large transformers full of cooling oil for usage indoors because of the flammablity rating of the PCB oils. Did you know, **NO***, I repeat ***NO*** death has ever been related to PCBs? "Doug Kanter" wrote in message ... "Jon Danniken" wrote in message ... "Doug Kanter" wrote: "Jon Danniken" wrote: "Doug Kanter" wrote: Here in upstate NY, an entire lake was contaminated with PCBs by some guy "salvaging" transformers at the shoreline. The fish are no longer safe to eat. You may want to investigate further what may be inside that transformer of yours before disassembling it. Perhaps your state's environmental conservation department, or local department of solid waste could assist in finding out more. Or, the manufacturer. How many transformers do you have in your house, Doug? How many of those contain PCBs? What types of transformers used PCBs, and what was the purpose for the PCBs? Jon Question 1: Doesn't matter. I have no intention of disassembling them. Question 2: Probably none, but none of the transformers in my home are older than 3-4 years, except the tiny one that handles the doorbell. I doubt PCB's are permitted in small household transformers at this stage, considering what we know about them. Question 3: The oil in older, larger transformers was there for either cooling or insulation - I don't recall, and it doesn't matter, since it's just a point of interest. But, the PCBs were there as a byproduct, not because they had a purpose. What's YOUR point? That, knowing what we do about these chemicals, we should be stupid, pretend the knowledge doesn't exist, and be careless? My point is that I suspected you of being a reactionary man who is unable to consider a topic rationally, based upon the facts in evidence, without launching into a pre-programmed tirade based upon emotional supposition and lack of knowledge. That you are unwilling to answer the very basic questions that I asked you WRT transformers further demonstrates this, and I thank you for further revealing yourself with your response. I can't "fix" the problems that you seem determined to expose to the world, Doug,, but perhaps you would be a bit better off it you would at least educate yourself a bit before exposing your ignorance in any particular area of knowledge. Of course, you might very well enjoy espousing your ignorance to the world; it seems to be a popular pastime with your type. Jon Reactionary? Nonsense. The OP stated that he has a transformer weighing around 200 lbs. While this does not necessarily mean it's different from the one in my furnace, dishwasher or doorbell, it also does not mean it's the same. Neither you nor I know exactly what he has. You know that. As far as "rational", I'm sure you're aware that there's an entire generation that has no idea what sort of chemistry experiments went on in this country before people finally woke up. Perhaps the Love Canal situation was the wakeup call. It's entirely possible that the OP had NO idea about what he might have in his possession. Why do you have a problem with suggesting that he proceed with caution? Do you believe that all the research into the dangers of PCBs are junk science? |
#22
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On Mon, 03 Jan 2005 18:55:33 GMT, "Doug Kanter"
wrote: "Jon Danniken" wrote in message ... "Doug Kanter" wrote: Here in upstate NY, an entire lake was contaminated with PCBs by some guy "salvaging" transformers at the shoreline. The fish are no longer safe to eat. You may want to investigate further what may be inside that transformer of yours before disassembling it. Perhaps your state's environmental conservation department, or local department of solid waste could assist in finding out more. Or, the manufacturer. How many transformers do you have in your house, Doug? How many of those contain PCBs? What types of transformers used PCBs, and what was the purpose for the PCBs? Jon Question 1: Doesn't matter. I have no intention of disassembling them. If you had transformers with PCBs in them, it most definitely _would_ matter. Under certain conditions transformers will dissassemble themselves in a rather spectacular fashion. And believe me, you would _not_ want to live in a house where that had happened -- even if the authorities would let you stay on. Question 2: Probably none, but none of the transformers in my home are older than 3-4 years, Immaterial. Even if they were 50 years old the transformers you'd find in a home would not have PCBs in them. PCBs were only used in large or highly specialized electrical equipment. except the tiny one that handles the doorbell. I doubt PCB's are permitted in small household transformers at this stage, considering what we know about them. PCBs aren't permitted in transformers of any size. Period. We have to make do with less effective substitutes. Question 3: The oil in older, larger transformers was there for either cooling or insulation - I don't recall, and it doesn't matter, since it's just a point of interest. But, the PCBs were there as a byproduct, not because they had a purpose. Well, no. The PCBs were added to the oil in electricial equipment because it helped to prevent arcing in the transformer. It was anything but a byproduct and was considered a major advance in the early 1930s when these products were introduced. What's YOUR point? That, knowing what we do about these chemicals, we should be stupid, pretend the knowledge doesn't exist, and be careless? MY point is that both of you need to simmer down. It's perfectly reasonable to ask if a 'large' surplus transformer contains oil. But you can't assume that it does. Or, if it does contain oil, that the oil is laced with PCBs. If the transformer is less than about 25 or 30 years old, it does not, no matter how much oil is in it. By the same token it's reasonable to be concerned about PCBs in the environment. They may have gotten a bum rap on how dangerous they are to humans, but the stuff is still a prime example of a bioconcentrator and it makes damn good sense to keep it out of the environment. --RC "Sometimes history doesn't repeat itself. It just yells 'can't you remember anything I've told you?' and lets fly with a club. -- John W. Cambell Jr. |
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All minor ailments and no deaths have ever been attributed to it.
Did you wash your hair in detergent this week? "Harry Chickpea" wrote in message news:41daa393.526844057@localhost... "Doug Kanter" wrote: Question 3: The oil in older, larger transformers was there for either cooling or insulation - I don't recall, and it doesn't matter, since it's just a point of interest. But, the PCBs were there as a byproduct, not because they had a purpose. Nope. The chemicals were there to facilitate heat transfer, especially in larger grid transformers. Needless to say, non-conductive liquids with a high boiling point are required for the task. http://www.ehso.com/EHSO_PCB.htm Characteristics and Uses of PCBs PCBs belong to a family of organic compounds known as chlorinated hydrocarbons. Key characteristics include: high boiling point, high degree of chemical stability, low flammability, and low electric conductivity. Between 1926-29 and 1977, PCB-containing products were manufactured for use in applications where stable, fire-resistant, heat-transfer properties were demanded. The most extensive use of PCBs occurred in dielectric fluids. Such fluids typically have the following characteristics: a heavy oil appearance, high boiling point, high chemical stability, high flash point, low electrical conductivity, and low water solubility. PCBs were also used as plasticizers and additives in lubricating and cutting fluids. Most PCBs were sold for use as dielectric fluids (insulating liquids) in electric transformers and capacitors. Other uses included heat transfer fluid, hydraulic fluid, dye carriers in carbonless copy paper, plasticizers in paints, adhesives, and caulking compounds, and filters in investment casting wax. Although PCBs are no longer commercially made in the United States, many electric transformers and capacitors once filled with PCBs are still in service. Additionally, PCBs currently are being inadvertently produced as byproducts during the manufacture of certain organic chemicals. PCB Manufacturers and Trade Names lists some of the manufacturers, who made PCBs and the trade names of their products. Why Are PCBs Harmful to Human Health and the Environment When released into the environment, PCBs do not easily break apart and form new chemical arrangements (i.e., they are not readily biodegradable). Instead they persist for many years, bioaccumulate, and bioconcentrate in organisms. Well documented tests on laboratory animals show that various levels of PCBs cause reproductive effects, gastric disorders, skin lesions, and cancerous tumors. Exposure to PCBs in humans can cause chloracne (a painful, disfiguring skin ailment), liver damage, nausea, dizziness, eye irritation, and bronchitis. |
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Hey moron! The copper is considered "mixed" copper and is worth about $0.02
per pound, if he seperates it all. IOW: they don't want it. William P.N. Smith wrote in message ... Ignoramus22732 wrote: It has a large transformer, it weighs around 200 lbs. It comes from a that 8 KVA Ferrups UPS. There is a super heavy square shaped copper wire on it, which, I fancy, could sell for some money. Why not offer the whole thing to a scrap-metal dealer? When they melt it down they'll recover the different metals... So... How do I take it apart? It was assembled from steel plates, can it be therefore disassembled? Yeah, remove any bolts, and start splitting the iron core segments apart (they are probably alternating meshed E and I pieces). Once you get the first few out the rest will come easier. I'd use an appropriately sized screwdriver and hammer... |
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On 3 Jan 2005 20:15:00 GMT, Ignoramus22732
wrote: I have some large capacitors also, how do I know if they have PCBs? i Make a note of the serial numbers and contact the manufacturer. If they do contain PCBs and they're not leaking, get rid of them immediately -- properly. The manufacturer may have that information on a web site. --RC "Sometimes history doesn't repeat itself. It just yells 'can't you remember anything I've told you?' and lets fly with a club. -- John W. Cambell Jr. |
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On Mon, 03 Jan 2005 20:15:28 GMT, "Doug Kanter"
wrote: "Harold & Susan Vordos" wrote in message ... "Doug Kanter" wrote in message ... snip------- Question 3: The oil in older, larger transformers was there for either cooling or insulation - I don't recall, and it doesn't matter, since it's just a point of interest. But, the PCBs were there as a byproduct, not because they had a purpose. They were intentionally used. As I understand it, PCB revolutionized the transformer and capacitor industry when they were introduced. I seem to recall that they were an excellent dielectric and had a very high flash point, so fire hazards were reduced. They were a purpose made substance sold under various trade names. What's YOUR point? That, knowing what we do about these chemicals, we should be stupid, pretend the knowledge doesn't exist, and be careless? All you have to do is end up with a PCB filled transformer as I did for this to come directly in to focus. Years ago I was given a "free" induction furnace power supply. The donor had me sign a waiver because the supply had a mercury spark gap included, but failed to mention that the transformer, along with the huge capacitors, were filled with PCB's. The law as stated at that time dictated that if any PCB filled device started leaking, it was mandatory for the item to be disposed of by within thirty day by proper procedures. I had to transport the power supply from one state to another, and when it got there there were multiple wet spots from the escaping PCB. Long story short, I talked to EPA to find out where I stood and found out that it was illegal to dispose of such items by passing them on to others, so I called the "donor" and informed him that he had a serious problem on his hands. Disposal cost ran right at $3,000 for 800 pounds of transformer and capacitors, which was born by the donor. Don't take PCB's lightly. Harold You mean all the research was not fiction created by left-wing atheist tree-hugging hippies? :-) No, but some of that research -- or more correctly the conclusions drawn from that research -- was later proven incorrect. This is something the left-wing, atheist, tree-hugging hippies will not admit. (As an aside, both sides in the environmental debate have made a cottage industry out of discrediting scientific studies supporting the other side's position. It takes some very careful reading to separate the solidly supported positions from the speculative ones and those from the junk science.) --RC "Sometimes history doesn't repeat itself. It just yells 'can't you remember anything I've told you?' and lets fly with a club. -- John W. Cambell Jr. |
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"Doug Kanter" wrote in message ... "Jon Danniken" wrote in message ... "Doug Kanter" wrote: "Jon Danniken" wrote: "Doug Kanter" wrote: Here in upstate NY, an entire lake was contaminated with PCBs by some guy "salvaging" transformers at the shoreline. The fish are no longer safe to eat. You may want to investigate further what may be inside that transformer of yours before disassembling it. Perhaps your state's environmental conservation department, or local department of solid waste could assist in finding out more. Or, the manufacturer. How many transformers do you have in your house, Doug? How many of those contain PCBs? What types of transformers used PCBs, and what was the purpose for the PCBs? Jon Question 1: Doesn't matter. I have no intention of disassembling them. Question 2: Probably none, but none of the transformers in my home are older than 3-4 years, except the tiny one that handles the doorbell. I doubt PCB's are permitted in small household transformers at this stage, considering what we know about them. Question 3: The oil in older, larger transformers was there for either cooling or insulation - I don't recall, and it doesn't matter, since it's just a point of interest. But, the PCBs were there as a byproduct, not because they had a purpose. What's YOUR point? That, knowing what we do about these chemicals, we should be stupid, pretend the knowledge doesn't exist, and be careless? My point is that I suspected you of being a reactionary man who is unable to consider a topic rationally, based upon the facts in evidence, without launching into a pre-programmed tirade based upon emotional supposition and lack of knowledge. That you are unwilling to answer the very basic questions that I asked you WRT transformers further demonstrates this, and I thank you for further revealing yourself with your response. I can't "fix" the problems that you seem determined to expose to the world, Doug,, but perhaps you would be a bit better off it you would at least educate yourself a bit before exposing your ignorance in any particular area of knowledge. Of course, you might very well enjoy espousing your ignorance to the world; it seems to be a popular pastime with your type. Jon Reactionary? Nonsense. The OP stated that he has a transformer weighing around 200 lbs. While this does not necessarily mean it's different from the one in my furnace, dishwasher or doorbell, it also does not mean it's the same. Neither you nor I know exactly what he has. You know that. As far as "rational", I'm sure you're aware that there's an entire generation that has no idea what sort of chemistry experiments went on in this country before people finally woke up. Perhaps the Love Canal situation was the wakeup call. It's entirely possible that the OP had NO idea about what he might have in his possession. Why do you have a problem with suggesting that he proceed with caution? Do you believe that all the research into the dangers of PCBs are junk science? For those who are interested in a little of the history of PCBs I work for a utility that has some experience with it. Firstly, size doesn't matter, it was everywhere at one time, and ignoramus's original post did not mention if the transformer was dry or not. So I think Doug's response to be wary of PCBs was the right thing to suggest, given the possible dangers involved. PCBs were the answer to a maidens prayer for transformer and capacitor manufacturers, since it had much better heat transfer characteristics combined with excellent dielectric strength. Plus it allowed more compact designs, and a cheaper overall product cost. All was well in transformer and capacitor land until a couple of incidents that drew attention to some of PCB environmental effects. One incident, came about because PCBs look and smell remarkably like cooking oil, somewhere ( Japan I think ) a barrel of it found its way into a restaurant and it was used to cook food. A number people were hospitalised from its effects, burning of the mouth, throat etc. Another incident involved a fire in a basement substation in a high rise building in the US. Although it is hard to burn, a fault in the transformer set it alight, and the buildings airconditioning system pumped the smoke from the fire through the building. PCB's produce dioxin when they burn, and the building was contaminated with dioxin. I'm not sure the mess has ever been cleaned up. Once they started looking at the chemical, they found that it had the property of being very stable, and of accumulating in the food chain. If someone did dump it in a lake, it would still be in the lake 500 years later, most likely in the fish at the top of the food chain. Experience in our own area was with a customer who bought us a sample capacitor to have tested. They had been asleep in bed, hot night with the fan on, when a capacitor in their ceiling fan leaked PCB's on to them. They had fairly serious skin reactions on their faces, necks, and legs, like a reaction to strong bleach, although the reaction was not immediate. The fellow who bought us the capacitor had the burns, so I've actually seen the effects of pure PCB. We removed all our PCB capacitors from our network, and replaced them with non PCB types. We stockpiled these for disposal on an incinerator ship which cruised the world destroying the PCBs by burning them at exteremly high temperatures, to destroy the dioxin, out at sea, since it was too dangerous to attempt it on land. Funny thing was the ships kept sinking, the cynic in me thinks it must have been cheaper to load up an old ship to the gunnels with the suff, and sink it rather than actually burn it. While we had no PCB transformers on our network, we acquired a network which did have some. The problem was that maintenance processes had cross contaminated a lot of other transformers with the stuff, and at one stage the EPA here had set a limit of 5 parts per million contamination of PCB before the oil was clasified as hazardous. I believe it is now at 20 ppm. I believe this to be a major over reaction to risks involved, it's the pure stuff that needs to be treated with respect. While there is a fair bit of hysteria surrounding PCBs, there are some real risks with the pure stuff that people playing with old transformers and capacitors need to be wary of. regards, John |
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Ignoramus22732 wrote:
So... How do I take it apart? It is a labor intensive operation. I take a knife, and using a light hammer, tap the blade between the laminations peeling them off one by one. The transformer might be worth more to someone as a transformer. Kevin Gallimore |
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"john johnson" wrote in message u... snip snap snude While there is a fair bit of hysteria surrounding PCBs, there are some real risks with the pure stuff that people playing with old transformers and capacitors need to be wary of. Thanx for the warning, I was not aware that there still might som PCBs arround in old oil filled transformers and old capacitors so I'll keep that in mind next time I go shopping at the local scrapheap :-) /Morten --- Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com). Version: 6.0.825 / Virus Database: 563 - Release Date: 31/12/2004 |
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If you mean bury it? NO! It is insulated copper probably!
Polysol insulation will burn off, Polythermaleze will burn off with a lot of heat, Formel insulation will probably not come off with any fire. These coatings are usually made to withstand severe heat in use. You could use it for a long wave antenae or how about a lightning collector to power that 25W bulb for a few seconds with the $100K in equipment to catch that once in a lifetime strike?...LOL Wind a huge Tesla coil on your roof and show the neighbours your nuts! (or drop your pants when they are looking) Can't this tranformer be used by somebody to generate a second 120V from a single phase 120V inverter? It sounds pretty beefy. BTW: once you knock the wedge out of the coil form the laminations will be easier to get out. This keeps them from buzzing until the varnish and other impregnations go into it. "Ignoramus22732" wrote in message ... On Mon, 3 Jan 2005 17:39:05 -0500, Gymy Bob wrote: Hey moron! The copper is considered "mixed" copper and is worth about $0.02 per pound, if he seperates it all. Can I use this copper as a grounding wire? i |
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On Mon, 3 Jan 2005 17:34:29 -0500, "Gymy Bob"
wrote: All minor ailments and no deaths have ever been attributed to it. snip You may consider it a "minor ailment", but have you seen the photos of that Ruskie politician who was purportedly poisoned with dioxin? A year ago he looked about like baby faced John Edwards, now he looks more like a puffy faced, acne ridden Andy Rooney... DJ |
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Ignoramus22732 wrote:
I am demolishing a huge 8 kVa UPS. Lots of nice wires, screws etc. It has a large transformer, it weighs around 200 lbs. It comes from a that 8 KVA Ferrups UPS. There is a super heavy square shaped copper wire on it, which, I fancy, could sell for some money. This wire is something like 3x8 mm in cross section. Very heavy stuff. So, if I somehow manage to pull the transformer apart, I would, first, able to throw the steel part to garbage, and second, to get and sell copper wire. i would also keep some of this copper wire for home uses such as grounding wire for my generator. Without taking it apart I will not be able to do anything with this monstrosity, not even throw it away. This is a specialty transformer with lots of contacts, so I do not think that I could sell it. (another, smaller like 50 lbs transformer is an isolation transformer which I hope to sell for at least something. Also, there are 8 1.2 farad capacitors) So... How do I take it apart? It was assembled from steel plates, can it be therefore disassembled? i What are the voltages (and type) on the capacitors? I may be interested. -- Steve Walker (remove wallet to reply) |
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I thought we were talking PCBs?
"DJ" wrote in message ... On Mon, 3 Jan 2005 17:34:29 -0500, "Gymy Bob" wrote: All minor ailments and no deaths have ever been attributed to it. snip You may consider it a "minor ailment", but have you seen the photos of that Ruskie politician who was purportedly poisoned with dioxin? A year ago he looked about like baby faced John Edwards, now he looks more like a puffy faced, acne ridden Andy Rooney... DJ |
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On Mon, 3 Jan 2005 19:45:30 -0500, "Gymy Bob"
wrote: I thought we were talking PCBs? I was referring to what another poster wrote: On Tue, 4 Jan 2005 10:13:33 +1100, "john johnson" wrote: snip Another incident involved a fire in a basement substation in a high rise building in the US. Although it is hard to burn, a fault in the transformer set it alight, and the buildings airconditioning system pumped the smoke from the fire through the building. PCB's produce dioxin when they burn, and the building was contaminated with dioxin. I'm not sure the mess has ever been cleaned up. snip "DJ" wrote in message .. . On Mon, 3 Jan 2005 17:34:29 -0500, "Gymy Bob" wrote: All minor ailments and no deaths have ever been attributed to it. snip You may consider it a "minor ailment", but have you seen the photos of that Ruskie politician who was purportedly poisoned with dioxin? A year ago he looked about like baby faced John Edwards, now he looks more like a puffy faced, acne ridden Andy Rooney... DJ |
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Mr Clarke wrote:
I am mystified as to how they manage to put the windings on Toroids. Interestingly enough, they use a toroid winding machine. A hoop is split to fit through the core. The hoop is then used as a carrier to wrap the wire around the core. http://www.ruff-inc.com/toroid_machi...od=MINI-SIMPLE Kevin Gallimore |
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You quoted me and answered my post in the thread.
"DJ" wrote in message ... On Mon, 3 Jan 2005 19:45:30 -0500, "Gymy Bob" wrote: I thought we were talking PCBs? I was referring to what another poster wrote: On Tue, 4 Jan 2005 10:13:33 +1100, "john johnson" wrote: snip Another incident involved a fire in a basement substation in a high rise building in the US. Although it is hard to burn, a fault in the transformer set it alight, and the buildings airconditioning system pumped the smoke from the fire through the building. PCB's produce dioxin when they burn, and the building was contaminated with dioxin. I'm not sure the mess has ever been cleaned up. snip "DJ" wrote in message .. . On Mon, 3 Jan 2005 17:34:29 -0500, "Gymy Bob" wrote: All minor ailments and no deaths have ever been attributed to it. snip You may consider it a "minor ailment", but have you seen the photos of that Ruskie politician who was purportedly poisoned with dioxin? A year ago he looked about like baby faced John Edwards, now he looks more like a puffy faced, acne ridden Andy Rooney... DJ |
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No deaths? OK. But, why is it considered dangerous?
"Gymy Bob" wrote in message ... There is no liquid in a "dry-type" transforemt and therefore no PCBs PCB were only used in large transformers full of cooling oil for usage indoors because of the flammablity rating of the PCB oils. Did you know, **NO***, I repeat ***NO*** death has ever been related to PCBs? "Doug Kanter" wrote in message ... "Jon Danniken" wrote in message ... "Doug Kanter" wrote: "Jon Danniken" wrote: "Doug Kanter" wrote: Here in upstate NY, an entire lake was contaminated with PCBs by some guy "salvaging" transformers at the shoreline. The fish are no longer safe to eat. You may want to investigate further what may be inside that transformer of yours before disassembling it. Perhaps your state's environmental conservation department, or local department of solid waste could assist in finding out more. Or, the manufacturer. How many transformers do you have in your house, Doug? How many of those contain PCBs? What types of transformers used PCBs, and what was the purpose for the PCBs? Jon Question 1: Doesn't matter. I have no intention of disassembling them. Question 2: Probably none, but none of the transformers in my home are older than 3-4 years, except the tiny one that handles the doorbell. I doubt PCB's are permitted in small household transformers at this stage, considering what we know about them. Question 3: The oil in older, larger transformers was there for either cooling or insulation - I don't recall, and it doesn't matter, since it's just a point of interest. But, the PCBs were there as a byproduct, not because they had a purpose. What's YOUR point? That, knowing what we do about these chemicals, we should be stupid, pretend the knowledge doesn't exist, and be careless? My point is that I suspected you of being a reactionary man who is unable to consider a topic rationally, based upon the facts in evidence, without launching into a pre-programmed tirade based upon emotional supposition and lack of knowledge. That you are unwilling to answer the very basic questions that I asked you WRT transformers further demonstrates this, and I thank you for further revealing yourself with your response. I can't "fix" the problems that you seem determined to expose to the world, Doug,, but perhaps you would be a bit better off it you would at least educate yourself a bit before exposing your ignorance in any particular area of knowledge. Of course, you might very well enjoy espousing your ignorance to the world; it seems to be a popular pastime with your type. Jon Reactionary? Nonsense. The OP stated that he has a transformer weighing around 200 lbs. While this does not necessarily mean it's different from the one in my furnace, dishwasher or doorbell, it also does not mean it's the same. Neither you nor I know exactly what he has. You know that. As far as "rational", I'm sure you're aware that there's an entire generation that has no idea what sort of chemistry experiments went on in this country before people finally woke up. Perhaps the Love Canal situation was the wakeup call. It's entirely possible that the OP had NO idea about what he might have in his possession. Why do you have a problem with suggesting that he proceed with caution? Do you believe that all the research into the dangers of PCBs are junk science? |
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Doug Kanter wrote:
Here in upstate NY, an entire lake was contaminated with PCBs by some guy "salvaging" transformers at the shoreline. The fish are no longer safe to eat. You may want to investigate further what may be inside that transformer of yours before disassembling it. Perhaps your state's environmental conservation department, or local department of solid waste could assist in finding out more. Or, the manufacturer. But the GUY who disassembled the transformers is okay, right? Maybe there's PCBs. Maybe not. If there are PCBs, there might be enough to be detectable. If so, diluted 1-trillion-to-one in a nearby pond might be sufficient to give one fish a headache. Bah! Who cares? |
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"Ignoramus22732" wrote in message ... I am demolishing a huge 8 kVa UPS. Lots of nice wires, screws etc. It has a large transformer, it weighs around 200 lbs. It comes from a that 8 KVA Ferrups UPS. There is a super heavy square shaped copper wire on it, which, I fancy, could sell for some money. This wire is something like 3x8 mm in cross section. Very heavy stuff. So, if I somehow manage to pull the transformer apart, I would, first, able to throw the steel part to garbage, and second, to get and sell copper wire. i would also keep some of this copper wire for home uses such as grounding wire for my generator. Without taking it apart I will not be able to do anything with this monstrosity, not even throw it away. This is a specialty transformer with lots of contacts, so I do not think that I could sell it. (another, smaller like 50 lbs transformer is an isolation transformer which I hope to sell for at least something. Also, there are 8 1.2 farad capacitors) So... How do I take it apart? It was assembled from steel plates, can it be therefore disassembled? i This is Turtle. i , first before starting to take apart this transformer contact your Medical insurance company and add on a Cancer Policy for you and the family members for your may need it if you spill any of this liquid at your house or on you. The transformer oil in not cancer causing stuff till it is used over a year or so and then it become PCB . the stuff is activated by the electricity going through it and become a Cancer causing stuff after they have been used. Now here is a chance to get rid of a unwanted Brother in law or kind folks by just getting them to take it apart and get the oil on them. In Short order your in the class of getting cancer soon. So if you interested in keeping your family safe and not have cancer. You need to have it hauled off to the Power company work station and dump it out when they are not looking and they have the means to dispose of it properly. There maybe $30 or $40 of copper in it but having Cancer will wipe out that profit real fast. i , DON"T TOUCH THAT STUFF AND GET RID OF IT. TURTLE |
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