Turbine likely behind fire at Michigan nuclear plant

MICHIGAN - Officials at American Electric Power Co. say they know the cause of a fire that led to a shutdown of one of two reactors at the Donald C. Cook Nuclear Plant in southwestern Michigan.

The utility says the fire in Unit 1 of the plant in Berrien County's Lake Township began when turbine vibrations caused a generator to leak hydrogen that ignited.

The Columbus, Ohio-based utility says fire damage is minimal but the vibrations more seriously damaged turbines, bearing supports and some steam piping.

An imbalance from the loss of turbine rotor blades probably caused the vibrations.

It will take one to three weeks to complete turbine inspections, then officials will have a better idea of when they can restart the reactor.