The information gathered from the extensive vibration monitoring equipment installed on the turbine indicated that small cracks might have been developed on two turbine blades.
PPL senior vice president and chief nuclear officer Timothy Rausch said, "After consultation with the equipment manufacturer, we have decided to take the most conservative action and shut down the unit to investigate."
During the shut down period, workers will perform additional maintenance activities, which can be carried out only when the unit is not in operation.
The Unit 1 turbine continues to be monitored for turbine vibration and to operate at full power, according to Rausch.
Situated in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, the Susquehanna nuclear facility is co-owned by PPL Susquehanna and Allegheny Electric Cooperative, and is operated by PPL Susquehanna.
