Preventive maintenance. Predictive maintenance. These terms get used interchangeably in many manufacturing circles. But there is a big difference.
While different, preventative and predictive maintenance are complementary industrial maintenance practices. Both are important strategies for maintaining and optimizing the operation of equipment and machinery in manufacturing. And if your facility isn’t thinking about both, it could cost you.
Preventive Maintenance
Preventive maintenance involves performing maintenance activities on a predetermined schedule, regardless of the actual condition of the machine. It is based on the premise that maintenance tasks should be carried out regularly to prevent equipment failures. This strategy is usually based on the manufacturer’s guidelines or the company’s previous experience with similar equipment. Preventive maintenance tasks include cleaning, inspections, lubrication, adjustments, repairs, and parts replacements.
The main objective of preventive maintenance is to prevent unforeseen equipment breakdowns that lead to unplanned outages.
Predictive Maintenance
Predictive maintenance involves monitoring equipment during normal operation to predict when maintenance should be performed. This approach uses sensors and other advanced analytical tools to monitor and analyze the condition of equipment and predict failures based on the data collected. This data can include vibration, temperature, pressure, noise level, and other parameters. The main advantage of predictive maintenance is that it allows maintenance to be scheduled only when necessary, potentially saving on costs and downtime.
Predict. Prevent. Prosper.
The best approach to avoiding unplanned downtime and maximizing efficiency balances predictive and preventive maintenance principles. Both strategies have their place in a comprehensive maintenance program.
A comprehensive preventive maintenance program ensures that you maximize the life and performance of your equipment. Predictive maintenance delivers real-time insight into potential issues that may not wait until your next planned outage. Both strategies provide unique viewpoints into how your equipment is changing over time, helping you make informed decisions to maximize efficiency and minimize downtime.
Do you need help improving your preventive and predictive maintenance programs? ProcessBarron is a total system solutions provider that can help you see beyond symptoms to identify root causes.
Email us to learn how.