A large number of companies have implemented predictive maintenance programs. All took this action to increase availability and reduce maintenance costs. Today many are questioning why predictive maintenance and other advanced maintenance practices haven’t gained the widespread acceptance merited by numerous success stories. Is predictive maintenance effective as is or is there something else that must be done?
There is something else that must be done. Thus far the implementation and success of advanced maintenance practices have been due largely to the efforts of committed enthusiasts at the plant working level. The next step toward the full benefits requires understanding, commitment, and support from senior management. For those companies with an established maintenance program, the following discussion is directly applicable. For newly organized companies or those investigating the benefits of advanced maintenance practices, the principles apply and the opportunity exists to learn from the experience of others.
