Removing hard glue from Transformer coils?

[tomadom]

I have pulled a number of Transformers from microwave ovens apart and they have these massive spools of copper wire in them. It's all enamel coated of course.

Those coils of wire are covered with a layer of hard glue. I want to be able to remove all that glue without removing the enamel on the copper wire. Would anyone know what I could use that would not destroy the enamel on the copper wire?

I'm sure someone out there has done this before.

Thanks very much.
Photo below

 

[Kabelsalat]

First problem is to narrow down the list of possible materials being used. In that regard, I used AI search <link>

This gives a list of 4 common materials commonly used, Epoxy resins, Thermoplastic bonding varnish, Baking varnish or Self-adhesive coatings - so next thing is to figure out what the glue might be made of and how to dissolve if possible.

 

[Delta Prime]

I use hot air. It pulls off like bubblegum using solvents will compromise the enamel coating.
Microwave transformer, Cores are made not to saturate. Secondaries will deliver a couple of kilovolts at an amp or so but if shorted by your flesh it will hurt the whole time you are dying. This is not for amateurs or hobbiest.

 

[davenn]

Secondaries will deliver a couple of kilovolts at an amp or so but if shorted by your flesh it will hurt the whole time you are dying. This is not for amateurs or hobbiest.

I suggest that he is after the copper wire for other things .... not repairing

 

[tomadom]

Yes it was the copper wire I was after. I already have the coils out I'm just wondering what others would use in this situation to clean off the hardened glue. Hot air gun is something I didn't think of despite the fact that I have three of them.

 

[Bluejets]

Think you will find it is epoxy based these days.
Even the older motor varnish would be a one way process.

 

[ivak245]

Yes it was the copper wire I was after. I already have the coils out I'm just wondering what others would use in this situation to clean off the hardened glue. Hot air gun is something I didn't think of despite the fact that I have three of them.

Try a hairdryer first. A heat gun may be too hot.

 

[tomadom]

Try a hairdryer first. A heat gun may be too hot.

Yes good point. There is variable heat on my hot air gun so it should be okay on a low setting

 

[EddyFiRa]

To remove hard glue from transformer coils, heat can soften the adhesive, and solvents may help break it down. The key is to apply the right method without damaging the coils.