Mechanical equipment is essential in various fields, including power plants, factories, and information processing centers. Methods for ensuring safety and reducing costs begin with applying specific checklists and the latest technologies. Today, we introduce practical inspection methods based on the latest cases from 2026.
2026 Practical Guide to Mechanical Equipment Safety Inspections and Cost Reduction
1. What types of equipment are included in mechanical equipment?
Mechanical equipment encompasses power generation facilities, machine tools and engines in manufacturing sites, pressure vessels, and cooling systems. For example, this includes nuclear power plant equipment from KHNP and machine tools from Hyundai Wia. Additionally, cooling devices required in information processing centers are also a type of mechanical equipment. Regular inspections are essential for these systems to operate normally.
2. How is artificial intelligence being applied to mechanical equipment?
Hyundai Wia has built an AI transformation factory operating a system that combines real-time monitoring with predictive maintenance. KHNP is collaborating with the U.S.-based EPRI to introduce AI-based non-destructive testing technology into nuclear power plant equipment. In information processing centers, AI is utilized to optimize the operational efficiency of cooling systems. These applications help increase equipment availability and reduce sudden failures.
3. What are the items easily overlooked in safety inspections?
In the case of Hanwha Aerospace, issues were pointed out regarding the use of uncertified explosion-proof electrical and mechanical devices and the lack of fireproof nets for diesel tanks. It is also a risk factor if the maximum operating pressure of a pressure vessel is not displayed or if safety valves are missing on overpressure equipment. Additionally, it must be confirmed that equipment for detecting toxic substance leaks is functioning properly. During inspections, always check the validity period of explosion-proof certification marks, the presence of pressure indicators, the installation status of safety valves, and the operational status of leak detectors.
4. How is nuclear maintenance technology evolving?
On January 1-2, 2026, KHNP and EPRI held an integrated event for the mechanical field at the Daejeon Convention Center. The event shared the latest cases on reactor material integrity assessment methods and steam generator management. It also discussed how AI-based non-destructive testing technology is applied to component life prediction. These technological advancements contribute to increasing the reliability of nuclear power plant equipment and rationally adjusting maintenance cycles.
5. What cooling equipment is needed in information processing centers?
Information processing centers must effectively remove heat generated by AI computations to ensure stable operation. Commonly used cooling equipment includes water-cooled heat exchangers, air circulation devices, and automatic temperature and humidity control devices. These systems must be equipped with functions to adjust operating levels according to external temperature changes. Securing adequate cooling capacity can reduce energy consumption in information processing centers and extend equipment lifespan.
6. Three Mechanical Equipment Checks You Can Do Today
First, check if the pressure indication on equipment labels is clear, and replace them immediately if the markings are blurry. Second, review whether explosion-proof certification marks are valid, and obtain recertification if they have expired. Third, clean the filters of cooling equipment and briefly test whether pumps and fans are operating normally. Inspecting these three items today can significantly reduce the risk of safety accidents.