The Real Costs of Buying Obsolete IGBTs Overseas — What Procurement Teams Need to Know

As the global supply chain continues to recover from years of disruption, many procurement professionals are still facing serious sourcing challenges — especially when it comes to obsolete or end-of-life IGBTs. These components, critical to power systems in industries like elevators, rail, industrial automation, and HVAC, are no longer produced by manufacturers, and yet remain essential for keeping legacy systems in service.

With limited domestic supply and increasing urgency, many teams turn to international brokers — especially in China — where inventory appears readily available and pricing looks favorable. But what seems like a straightforward transaction often becomes an expensive misstep.

According to data from the ECIA (Electronic Components Industry Association), the risk of counterfeit or substandard components increases dramatically when sourcing obsolete semiconductors from non-authorized, overseas sources. In fact, industry surveys estimate that more than 50% of obsolete semiconductors purchased through gray market channels fail to meet spec — and nearly 1 in 4 buyers report receiving counterfeit components at some point in their careers.

The true cost of these sourcing decisions extends far beyond the unit price. International shipments can take weeks and are subject to customs delays, documentation errors, and tariffs. Most brokers offer no warranty, no technical support, and no return policy. When a component arrives damaged or incorrect — or simply never arrives at all — buyers are left with few options and even less recourse.

That’s where ATI Accurate Technology Inc. helps procurement teams take back control.

ATI is a U.S.-based distributor specializing in obsolete and hard-to-find IGBTs and power modules. Unlike general electronic brokers, we focus exclusively on legacy and end-of-life components — and we’ve built one of the largest verified inventories of obsolete IGBTs in North America, with over 5,000 unique part numbers in stock.

From our headquarters in Palmetto, Florida, ATI supports more than 200 Fortune 500 companies and thousands of MRO teams worldwide. All in-stock items ship same-day, with next-day delivery available across the U.S. That means zero customs delays, no surprise import fees, and a sourcing process built for speed and reliability.

More importantly, every part sold by ATI comes backed by a full 1-year warranty — an uncommon offering in the world of legacy components. Procurement teams also benefit from real human support: we answer the phone, we respond to emails promptly, and we understand the time-sensitive nature of your work. Whether you're looking for a specific obsolete Mitsubishi module or need help identifying a cross-compatible replacement for a discontinued Semikron IGBT, ATI offers more than just inventory — we provide sourcing intelligence.

Preferred customers gain additional advantages, including early access to high-demand inventory, bulk pricing discounts, and priority sourcing support.

Obsolete components may be out of production — but they’re not out of demand. As industrial equipment continues to age and modernization timelines stretch, the need for reliable sourcing partners has never been more critical.

Procurement professionals must balance urgency, cost, and risk every day. At ATI, we’re here to make that equation simpler — with secure domestic inventory, expert support, and proven reliability.

Explore our inventory at https://igbts.us or contact us directly to discuss your sourcing needs.

Team ATI is here to support your next sourcing challenge — contact us today.

Email: websales@igbt.us.com

Phone: 239.734.7566

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