Shift MRO Toward Predictive Reliability to Cut Downtime Risk

Predictive maintenance helps manufacturers protect the reliability of compressed air systems by using condition-based monitoring, preventive service and leak detection to reduce unplanned downtime, improve efficiency and support system redundancy. When people think of compressed air, many think of air compressors used to fill up tires or run air tools

Lost production costs are typically far more than the costs of redundancy and predictive services. Start with preventive maintenance Most companies reach out to local service providers for preventive maintenance agreements to ensure their compressed air equipment is serviced according to the manufacturer’s requirements

Predictive maintenance helps manufacturers protect the reliability of compressed air systems by using condition-based monitoring, preventive service and leak detection to reduce unplanned downtime, improve efficiency and support system redundancy

Increased safety regulations, automation and personnel training and progression from the production line to the control room. So, once again, training is the primary tool for success

Planned maintenance, which is a combination of preventive/predictive when the right aids, not just mechanical tools, are used, is preferred

Maintenance insights CITGO’s Julio Acosta argues that technology alone is not enough; without continuous workforce training, cross-functional alignment and a clear business case for reliability spending, even the best new solutions will fall short. Julio Acosta, a CITGO Petroleum product specialist with more than 30 years of experience in industrial lubrication, discusses how automation, maintenance discipline and workforce training are reshaping plant reliability and investment priorities

It influences capital planning, system design decisions and long-term operating cost. While the motor’s purchase price represents only a small portion of its total life cycle cost, electricity consumption accounts for the overwhelming majority

Figure 1: Evaluating motor performance within the full pump system context helps identify hidden inefficiencies driven by load behavior, control strategy and motor-to-pump alignment. Courtesy: ABB Learning objectives Identify how motor selection, slip, load profile and control strategy influence pump system energy consumption and overall efficiency

A motor does not need to fail to affect the bottom line

announced it has validated its ChipCHECK debris analysis technology for use on the Pratt & Whitney F135 engine, which powers the Lockheed Martin F-35 aircraft. The company, which develops condition monitoring and diagnostic technologies for aerospace, defence and industrial applications, said the system enables on-site metallic debris analysis using laser-based technology, reducing reliance on laboratory testing and supporting faster maintenance decisions

ChipCHECK is designed to provide rapid diagnostics and help reduce turnaround time during maintenance

The company, which develops condition monitoring and diagnostic technologies for aerospace, defence and industrial applications, said the system enables on-site metallic debris analysis using laser-based technology, reducing reliance on laboratory testing and supporting faster maintenance decisions