Inspired by http://mad-science.wonderhowto.com/how-to/turn-microwave-oven-transformer-into-high-amperage-metal-melter-0140772/
Disclaimer, you really should not do this. Don’t try this unless you are really sure you know what your doing. Mains is dangerous, and microwaves even more so.
Work in Progress
Picked up a broken microwave from freecycle
Ok, Sticker.
Getting the top off. There is a pretty bad smell coming from this microwave
For something that is not meant to be user-serviceable all these components came out really easily. Here is what I was after
A little disappointed its a small plastic transformer. I was expecting something bulkier and with a stronger metal case. But I will try it anyway
Removed it from the board
Removed the copper with some clippers and a screwdriver. the plastic is very brittle and breaks off easily, need to be careful
All the second coil removed
Picked up some heavy duty cable from scrap at work
Gave the secondary coil a winding to have a quick test
Wired up a cable to a chocolate block
It didn’t really work
Another microwave
and out of it a new transformer, much more like what I was looking for. I also bought a circuit breaker so I don’t necessarily blow the mains if this one is faulty too