Securing Obsolete IGBTs to Keep US Industrial Power Systems Running
CASE STUDY

Securing Obsolete IGBTs to Keep US Industrial Power Systems Running

Sep 16, 2025 4 min read

Customer Profile

A leading US-based OEM in industrial power electronics, specializing in high-performance motor drives and energy control systems. Their equipment powers manufacturing and energy infrastructure across multiple sectors, where downtime translates directly into revenue loss and reputational risk.

The Challenge

The customer urgently required the IRG4BC20KD-SPBF, an Infineon IGBT with an ultrafast soft recovery diode, for use in industrial motor drive assemblies.

  • The part had officially gone obsolete and was no longer available through authorized distribution.

  • Market inventory was scarce, with brokers quoting inconsistent availability and questionable authenticity.

  • The customer’s production line was at risk, delays meant missed delivery schedules, penalties, and potential customer loss.

Why the Component is Critical

The IRG4BC20KD-SPBF IGBT is engineered for high-efficiency switching and power control in demanding applications, including:

  • Motor drives & industrial automation equipment

  • UPS and inverter systems

  • Energy management solutions

Its low conduction losses, rugged design, and ultrafast diode recovery make it a non-interchangeable component. A redesign would mean months of engineering effort and system requalification.

Maketronics’ Role: Rapid Sourcing with Quality Assurance

Maketronics stepped in to bridge the gap between urgency and authenticity.

  • Sourced new & original Infineon IRG4BC20KD-SPBF units through our vetted global network.

  • Parts went through extensive testing at a reputed independent US-based third-party laboratory.

  • All units passed testing successfully, validating genuineness and performance reliability.

  • Delivered parts within days, ensuring zero disruption to production.

Results Delivered

  • Secured obsolete IGBTs not available via authorized distributors

  • Full QC assurance via independent US lab testing, including successful de-cap verification

  • Avoided production stoppage and shipment delays for industrial motor drives

  • Protected the customer’s supply chain resilience, reputation, and client trust

Key Takeaway

Even when critical IGBTs go obsolete, Maketronics ensures industrial OEMs stay on track. With a combination of rapid global sourcing, strategic quality assurance, and transparent processes, we help customers in the US and worldwide avoid downtime, cost overruns, and redesign risks.

#Maketronics #IGBT #Infineon #ObsoleteComponents #PowerElectronics #IndustrialAutomation #MotorDrives #EnergyManagement #SupplyChainSolutions #ComponentSourcing

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