MGM Transformer is based in Commerce, California, and builds dry-type and liquid-filled transformers. MGM units are common in commercial, data center and industrial projects. For sellers, the important distinction is the equipment itself: a low-voltage dry-type unit from a building renovation has different identification and handling details than a medium-voltage dry-type or liquid-filled pad-mount unit.
We buy MGM equipment from sellers throughout Virginia, from a single spare to multiple transformers released during a project change. If you need to sell MGM Transformer transformer inventory, start with the full nameplate rather than just the brand or enclosure size. Our transformer nameplate guide explains where to find the ratings that distinguish one unit from another.
01MGM equipment we buy: dry-type and pad-mount units
We buy low-voltage dry-type, medium-voltage dry-type and pad-mount MGM transformers. We also buy new-surplus units that never entered service and used units removed from service. Our buying scope covers single-phase equipment from 10 kVA and three-phase equipment from 15 kVA through MVA-class power transformers.
Do not group every MGM unit under the same description. A ventilated low-voltage transformer, an enclosed medium-voltage dry-type assembly and an oil-filled pad-mount transformer have different construction and documentation needs. Identify each unit separately, especially when a surplus list mixes dry-type transformers with liquid-filled equipment.
- Low-voltage dry-type: record primary and secondary voltages, phase, kVA, taps and enclosure markings.
- Medium-voltage dry-type: include insulation and BIL ratings where shown, winding configuration and termination photos.
- Pad-mount: photograph the tank, nameplate and safely accessible cable compartments without opening energized equipment.
- New surplus: include packaging condition, storage history and any available factory documents.
- Failed or damaged units: describe the failure and affected components; review is case by case.
02Identify the exact MGM transformer before listing it
A clear nameplate photo is more useful than a typed description alone. Capture the manufacturer, model or catalog designation, serial number, kVA, phase, frequency, primary voltage and secondary voltage. Include the year of manufacture if it appears on the plate or supporting records. Do not infer the year from a serial number without documentation.
Photograph the entire plate so connection diagrams, tap positions and smaller markings remain readable. A voltage such as 480Y/277 describes a wye-connected secondary with 480 volts line to line and 277 volts line to neutral. A marking such as 12470GrdY/7200 carries different application information. Preserve that notation exactly instead of shortening it to '12 kV.'
- Record impedance and winding material when listed.
- Include temperature-rise, insulation-system and enclosure ratings for dry-type units.
- Include fluid type, fluid quantity and cooling class for liquid-filled units.
- Photograph shipping labels or documents if the installed nameplate is difficult to read.
03What matters on MGM dry-type transformers
We pay attention to the voltage combination, kVA and physical condition of MGM dry-type units. On low-voltage equipment, photographs should show the enclosure, ventilation openings, terminal area and mounting arrangement when safely accessible. Report missing covers, damaged lugs, corrosion, heavy contamination or visible heat damage rather than describing every removed unit as 'working.'
For medium-voltage dry-type equipment, include the BIL rating, available connection drawings and any test or maintenance records already in your possession. Explain whether the transformer was a spare, remained in service until a shutdown or was removed after a fault. A unit from a dry indoor electrical room has a different condition history than one stored outdoors with exposed ventilation openings.
Capacity alone does not identify the application. A 150 kVA transformer needs its voltage and phase information just as much as a larger assembly. Include overall dimensions and listed weight when available, especially if the enclosure must pass through a doorway or leave a basement electrical room.
04Details that distinguish MGM pad-mount equipment
For MGM pad-mount units, we need the electrical ratings plus a clear view of the tank and cabinet. Identify the primary and secondary configurations, taps, impedance and cooling class as listed. ONAN and ONAF markings identify cooling arrangements; do not substitute a guessed rating based on cabinet size. Document the fluid as mineral oil, FR3 natural ester or another type only when the plate or records support it.
Report leaks, dents, corrosion, missing components and any known fault history. PCB status must be disclosed and documented; age or appearance alone is not sufficient documentation. Do not drain fluid for a sale. Our pad-mount transformer buying page covers this equipment category beyond the MGM brand.
Large units also need practical removal information. For a 3,000 kVA transformer, for example, the nameplate weight, dimensions and route to the loading area help define handling requirements. Tell us about fences, bollards, restricted truck access or other obstacles before pickup arrangements are finalized.
05Typical MGM surplus sources across Virginia
Commercial renovations can release MGM low-voltage transformers when tenant loads, distribution layouts or building uses change. Data center projects can generate spare units or new-surplus equipment after design revisions. Industrial shutdowns and electrical upgrades can release medium-voltage dry-type or pad-mount equipment. Tell us which situation produced your inventory because it helps explain service and storage history.
We serve sellers in every Virginia region, including Northern Virginia, Richmond and Central Virginia, Hampton Roads, the Shenandoah Valley and Southwest Virginia. For a multi-unit lot, match each nameplate photo to an inventory number and its own condition notes. Keep unopened surplus, serviceable removals and failed units clearly separated on the list.
06Send your MGM equipment details to an independent buyer
We are an independent buyer and are not affiliated with MGM Transformer or any other manufacturer, including Virginia Transformer Corp of Roanoke. Brand names describe the equipment we buy, not a manufacturer relationship. You can include other makes in the same inventory; our transformer brands page provides additional brand-specific information.
To sell MGM Transformer transformer units, send clear nameplate and overall photos, location, quantity and condition notes through Get an Offer. We review the details and may ask about PCB documentation, test data or site access. If the equipment fits, we send a written offer specifying price, freight, loading and payment terms, then schedule pickup with you; payment follows those terms. See how the buying process works for details.
Frequently asked questions
Can I sell an MGM dry-type transformer without its original paperwork?
Yes, you can submit an MGM dry-type transformer without original paperwork if the nameplate and condition can be documented. Send a readable plate photo and explain what records are missing. Existing drawings and test reports are helpful, especially for medium-voltage equipment, but do not guess missing ratings or describe undocumented test results as verified.
Do you buy MGM transformers left over from a canceled project?
Yes, we buy new-surplus MGM transformers left over from canceled or revised projects. Identify whether each unit remains packaged, was installed but never energized, or entered service. Include storage conditions, packaging damage and available factory documents. Never-installed equipment still needs its own nameplate identification and accurate condition notes.
Can I sell an MGM transformer that is still connected?
You can submit details for an MGM transformer that is still connected, but your qualified electrician must de-energize and disconnect it before pickup. We do not perform electrical disconnect work. Take only safely accessible photos, and do not open energized compartments to obtain terminal pictures or additional identification.
Will you buy an MGM transformer with burned windings?
MGM transformers with burned windings are reviewed case by case. Describe the known failure, whether protective devices operated and any damage to the enclosure, terminals or tank. Include existing inspection or test records if available. Do not energize a failed unit to demonstrate its condition or remove fluid for the sale.
What if my MGM pad-mount transformer has no PCB records?
Tell us that PCB records are missing when you submit the MGM pad-mount transformer. PCB status must be disclosed and documented, and the manufacturer's name or manufacturing year does not replace that documentation. Share any existing fluid analysis or equipment records. We do not provide environmental advice or ask you to drain the transformer.