COLUMBUS, Ohio, Nov. 3, 2003 -- Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) has leased an
Auto-Probe Q2000 system from United Sciences Testing, Inc. (USTI) to
perform automated relative accuracy test audits (RATA). TVA’s
internal testing crews will use the Auto-Probe Q2000 to increase the
accuracy and speed of the flow RATA tests performed on its internal
fossil fleet.
Auto-Probe Q2000 is the only automated RATA system currently approved by the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The computer-based, automated
system increases accuracy and repeatability by dramatically reducing
the scatter and bias commonly found in flow RATA data generated with
conventional manual testing equipment, according to Mike Brown, general
manager of USTI.
Increasing flow RATA test precision and accuracy through USTI’s automated
system helps utilities lower the cost of compliance with air emissions
regulations, Brown said. More accurate emissions data also provide utilities
with better information to plan for future capital investment decisions
related to emissions controls. The speed of the automated system also
saves O&M expenses by reducing the RATA test duration for non-normal
loads.
USTI is a subsidiary of American Electric Power Co., Inc. (NYSE: AEP), the nation’s
largest generator of electricity. The AEP power plant fleet includes
more than 25,000 megawatts of coal-fired generation, and the utility
uses the Auto-Probe Q2000 exclusively for flow RATA testing.
USTI is headquartered at 5475 William Flynn Highway, Gibsonia, Pa. 15044. The
Gibsonia phone number is 724-449-9700. Questions regarding equipment
leases and/or direct testing services may also be directed to 614-716-6875.