The Tennessee Valley Authority celebrated the ribbon-cutting and dedication of a new Pietro-Carnaghi Vertical Turning Lathe (VTL) at the Power Service Shops in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. 

"This advanced equipment – one of only five of its model and size in the U.S. – is a centerpiece of TVA’s $39.9 million investment to expand machining capabilities and ensure reliable power for the 10 million people served across the Tennessee Valley," it said.

The VTL dramatically increases TVA’s ability to machine large components for its generation fleet. With this addition, TVA can perform critical work in-house, reducing downtime and avoiding costly delays associated with external vendors.

“This investment strengthens TVA’s ability to deliver safe, reliable, and affordable energy,” says Brian Williams, Senior Vice President of Generation Projects and Fleet Services. “The new VTL ensures we can maintain our diverse generating fleet of more than 32,000MW with precision and speed.”

Opening over eight decades ago, the Power Service Shops have evolved into a high-tech hub staffed on averageup to 700 skilled craftspeople and support professionals. 

The Power Service Shops maintain and refurbish components for TVA’s diverse generation portfolio, including three nuclear plants, 29 hydroelectric dams, and multiple coal and natural gas facilities. Equipped with advanced tools like laser-guided scanners, 3D metal printers, laser ablation technologies, and water jet cutters, the shops can fabricate or repair parts that are no longer available from original manufacturers.

“Our Power Service Shops have been the backbone of TVA’s operations for decades,” said Corey Saint, Power Service Shops General Manager. “Adding this advanced technology keeps us at the forefront of innovation and efficiency. However, the real strength of the Power Service Shops is our people. Their skill, dedication, and pride in craftsmanship keep TVA’s generating fleet running safely and reliably.”

"Along with the work they perform in the shops, union craft personnel spring into action, mobilizing in as little as 24 hours when unexpected generation issues occur - a capability that saves TVA more than 300,000 megawatt hours annually," TVA noted.