Behind the scenes MGM Transformer Co. was working with major equipment suppliers to design and deliver transformers in record time for the theater to reopen.

When the Nationally acclaimed Wortham Theater in Houston TX was closed by severe damage caused by Hurricane Harvey, it took many companies working together to design and build the necessary equipment to repair the damage and rebuild new systems to integrate with the old. “One reason why our recovery has taken so long is because of the complexity of combining partial 30 year old equipment and partial new equipment. The design team had to really work hard to make those connections and to make that compatibility work,” said Sheila Turkiewicz, Senior Vice President the Theater District.

During Hurricane Harvey, Wortham Theater took on about 12 feet of water, which damaged the basement, tunnel access to underground garages, costume shops, storage areas, and opera and ballet rehearsal spaces.

Working with a major equipment manufacturer, MGM Transformers designed and manufactured 4 medium voltage substation style transformers and delivered them to the job site within 15 days.

“Getting the Wortham back up and running again after taking on twelve feet of water is a complex process, but contractors and the forensic engineering firm have worked tirelessly to safely dry out, assess and stabilize the building,” said Sheila.

For further information on how MGM Transformers can help you with your special applications or needs contact us at 1(800) 429-4366 or info@mgmtransformer.com.

MGM Transformer Company is one of only two companies in North America that can supply both oil-filled and dry-type substation transformers.  Often, when a project calls for units of each type, that places MGM in a position of strength relative to those who specialize in one type.

A recent project on the  Minneapolis Green Line Metro Transit to connect the communities of Eden Prairie, Minnetonka, Hopkins, St. Louis Park and Minneapolis required just that – oil-filled transformers alongside dry-type – as they sought to replace existing oil-filled while expanding with dry-type substations. MGM recently delivered on each allowing them to place their first light rail transit tracks this month. Here are photos of each type of unit that were each designed, manufactured, and tested in our Commerce, California facility. Having everything completed in on location allowed the customer to perform Witness and Factory Acceptance Tests without traveling to / auditing multiple facilities.

If you see a spec-sheet that calls for both types of substations, please don’t hesitate. If you need any more information about our dry or oil-filled offerings, you can find everything you need at Dry Substation (VPI) Transformers or Liquid Filled Substation Transformers.

MGM Transformer Company is the largest transformer company in the western United States, offering a complete line of transformers (both dry type and liquid filled) with a product range is from 10kVA to greater than 10MVA. Please contact us at 323-726-0888 for more information.