Electric motors are widely used across Australia—from household appliances to industrial machinery. But when they stop working, many people ask:
“Are electric motors worth scrapping in Australia?”
Yes, but value depends on copper content, size, and market rates.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- Current electric motor scrap prices in Australia
- How to scrap motors properly
- expert tips to maximise your profit
What Makes Electric Motors Valuable?
Electric motors are valuable because they contain recyclable metals, especially:
- Copper (most valuable)
- Aluminium
- Steel
👉 Copper is the key driver of value. In Australia, clean copper can reach $10–$13 per kg, making motors worth scrapping if they contain good copper windings
How Much Are Electric Motors Worth in Perth & Nearby Areas? (2026)
Scrap prices in Perth, Malaga, Wangara, and surrounding WA regions vary based on copper content, motor size, and daily market demand.
Average electric motor scrap prices in Perth (WA):
- Small copper motors: $0.50 – $0.80 per kg
- Medium motors: $0.60 – $1.00 per kg
- Large industrial motors: $0.80 – $1.10+ per kg
- Mixed / unsorted motors: $0.50 – $0.80 per kg
👉 These are realistic Perth yard ranges and can fluctuate depending on supply and copper prices. However, with Universal Scrap Metal, you can expect competitive rates, transparent pricing, and better value—especially for bulk loads and properly sorted motors.
Types of Electric Motors and Their Value
1. Copper Motors (High Value)
- Found in industrial machines
- Highest payout due to copper windings
2. Aluminium Motors (Lower Value)
- Common in household appliances
- Less profitable
3. Sealed Motors / Compressors
- Hard to dismantle
- Usually sold as-is for lower rates.
Step-by-Step Process to Scrap Electric Motors
Step 1: Collect and Sort
Separate motors by:
- size
- copper vs aluminium
- condition
Step 2: Decide – Sell Whole or Break Down
- Sell whole motors → quick and easy.
- Dismantle motors → higher profit.
👉 Many Australian scrap yards pay more for clean, separated metals
Step 3: Extract Copper (Optional but Profitable)
- Open the casing
- Remove copper windings
- Clean the copper
👉 Clean copper is significantly more valuable than mixed scrap.
Step 4: Separate Materials
Sort into:
- Copper
- Aluminium
- Steel
This increases your total payout.
Step 5: Sell to a Scrap Yard
Choose a licensed and reputable recycler in Australia to ensure:
- Accurate weighing
- Fair pricing
- Environmental compliance
👉 Prices are influenced by global markets like the London Metal Exchange.
Tips to Maximise Scrap Value in Australia
✔ Separate Copper
Clean copper sells for up to 10x more than mixed motors.
✔ Sell in Bulk
Higher volume = better negotiation power
✔ Track Market Prices
Scrap prices fluctuate based on global demand.
✔ Clean Your Scrap
Dirty or mixed metals get lower rates
✔ Avoid Burning Copper
Burnt copper is considered lower grade and pays less.
Sell Whole vs Scrap Yourself – What’s Better?
Sell Whole Motors if:
- You want quick cash
- You don’t have tools.
Scrap Yourself if:
- You want maximum profit.
- You can safely extract copper.
👉 In Australia, dismantling large motors is usually more profitable due to high copper prices.
Environmental Benefits of Scrapping Motors
Recycling electric motors helps Australia by:
- Reducing landfill waste
- Conserving natural resources
- Lowering energy use
👉 Recycling copper uses significantly less energy than mining new copper
Why Choose Universal Scrap Metal?
At Universal Scrap Metal, we provide:
- Competitive Australian scrap rates
- Transparent weighing system
- Fast pickup services
- Eco-friendly recycling practices
👉 Contact us today—whether you’re a homeowner, tradie, or business—and let us help you get the best value for your scrap electric motors.
FAQs
- Are electric motors worth scrapping in Australia?
Yes—especially motors with high copper content. - What is the average scrap price for motors in Australia?
Typically $0.50 to $1.50 per kg, depending on size and material. - Which motors have the highest value?
Large industrial copper motors. - Can I dismantle motors myself?
Yes, but use proper tools and safety precautions.
Conclusion
Electric motors are absolutely worth scrapping in Australia—both financially and environmentally.
If you want convenience, sell them whole.
For higher returns, extract and separate copper a nd materials.
👉 Partnering with a trusted recycler like Universal Scrap Metal ensures you get maximum value with zero hassle.