Microwave Ovens & Farraday Cages

[Shazbot57]

Not sure if this is the right place so if not please feel free to move it but: Anyone know if 1) Microwave ovens can be repaired economically, or if they are worth repairing or even scrapping, and 2) did I read somewhere they can be used as a faraday cage, or is that not the best choice for a f.c.? Thanks...

[Shazbot57]

Not sure if this is the right place so if not please feel free to move it but: Anyone know if 1) Microwave ovens can be repaired economically, or if they are worth repairing or even scrapping, and 2) did I read somewhere they can be used as a faraday cage, or is that not the best choice for a f.c.? Thanks...

[ThePowersThatBe]

Threads merged. Please don't start multiple threads about the same thing.

[AdamsSamoa]

I scrap them.... google scraping a microwave

[TXSTARFIRE]

I have repaired a small microwave before. It had a small ceramic fuze that had blown. I was able to get a replacement at Radio Shack. I dont believe that the fuze was designed to be user serviceable as I had to disassemble the unit somewhat to replace it. Anyway, sometimes it is a simple thing that goes wrong and it might be repairable.

tt

[68Camaro]

It is a type of faraday cage at least at microwave frequencies, but I don't know that the shielding is good for EMP frequencies. Good thought/question, but not sure of the answer.

[Engineer]

I'm not sure if this applies everywhere, but the local dumps and scrap yards won't take microwaves unless they're disassembled or you pay $20 for them to pull out the magnetron.

I tore one apart just to avoid the fee, so any scrap money it yields is a bonus.

[hobo finds]

Here in AZ they can go as is, but I break them down (easy) and then add small items in the door and seal shut. Beware of the pink ring on the magnetron that is where the bad stuff is...

[TXSTARFIRE]

Is there something hazardous in a microwave? If so, what is it?

tt

[hobo finds]

beryllium oxide in that pink ring on the magnetron. Don't crush and breath it

[TXSTARFIRE]

Thanks, thats good to know.

tt

[Mossy]

Easier and more convenient to make a faraday cage. Use window screen. Staple from the inside out as conductors going into the screened area can carry radio signals, as can anything conductive touching the shell from the inside. Be sure to have good contact between the sides, maybe use conductive paste. This is a temporary structure.

Do not bother to ground, just make certain of a full enclosure wih no cracks.

A metal box will also work, and last longer. Smooth and flat sides, not roofing with channels.

Remember: line with an insulator so nothing conductive can touch the shell from the inside.