MHI, Kyoto University Open Combustion Dynamics Laboratory

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) and Kyoto University will begin operating an industry-academic laboratory on April 1: MHI Innovative Combustion Dynamics Laboratory. Research aims to build gas turbine combined-cycle (GTCC) power plants with over 70% efficiency and carbon-neutral combustion technology, as well as developing next-generation talent in deeply technical fields.

MHI will install test rigs to illuminate the combustion mechanism of actual engines, utilize advanced measurement technology and numerical simulations to understand phenomena, and work to create combustion technology with updated concepts. Additionally, research will be executed toward social implementation, covering numerous forms of combustion like rocket engine combustion, supersonic combustion, and reciprocating engine combustion.

As the global demand for electricity rises and data centers are expanded due to advanced electrification and the popularization of generative AI, maintaining stable electricity supply with decarbonization is a critical issue worldwide. With these circumstances, gas turbine demand has increased due to their high efficiency, highly adjustable output, and ability to supplement renewable energy while contributing to reduced CO₂ emissions. It is expected that gas turbines will be central in supporting the realization of a carbon-neutral society due to their compatibility with clean, zero-carbon fuels such as hydrogen.

Combustion technology is a primary element. Combustion control with high efficiency and ultra-low emissions is a strong field for Japan, which makes Japanese manufacturers internationally competitive. Continuing investment in R&D and next-generation personnel development is a vital initiative that will increase competitiveness and lead to the ongoing development of Japan’s energy industry.

Centrifugal Chiller

In mid-March 2026, MHI announced plans to work toward introducing a 10-MW class centrifugal chiller designed for next-generation AI data centers in the North American market, targeting industrial-grade AI computing infrastructure. The company said it aims to obtain U.S. safety and regulatory certifications, including UL, potentially as early as 2026, with commercial availability expected afterward.

As global demand for large-scale AI computing continues to accelerate, data center operators are increasingly prioritizing proven reliability, energy efficiency, and water sustainability when evaluating cooling infrastructure. MHI said it plans to leverage its industrial experience to position its centrifugal chiller solution as a potential standardized cooling platform for GW-class AI data centers, where a strong operational track record is a key factor in technology selection.

The system uses a high-efficiency centrifugal chiller design with an in-house developed compressor, optimized through a single-compressor configuration to achieve strong performance at both part-load and full-load conditions. MHI also plans to integrate plant-level control through its proprietary control system and Modular Chiller Plant architecture, enabling the effective use of free-cooling operating modes and improving Power Usage Effectiveness.

AST Turbo AG

In late February 2026, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Compressor Corp. successfully acquired all shares of AST Turbo AG (AST), a Switzerland-based company that specializes in rotating equipment maintenance services. AST conducts maintenance, inspection, and field services for rotating machinery such as compressors and steam turbines that drive compressors at resource and energy development sites, including the oil and gas sectors.