From industries such as manufacturing, facility management, or public administration, every organization relies on the optimal functioning of its equipment and systems. To manage and maintain these assets effectively companies approach various forms of maintenance. But what exactly are these maintenance types and why are they crucial?
Based on our experience working with diverse companies across various sectors, although internally they are defined in different ways, we have come to the conclusion that there are 3 main types of maintenance:
1. Preventive Maintenance
Preventive maintenance is a proactive practice that entails regularly planned overhauls and inspections of equipment to prevent breakdowns and ensure optimal operation. These overhauls can be scheduled based on manufacturer recommendations, which can be set over a period of time, such as monthly or semi-annually, or they can depend on metrics such as operating hours. Implementing a rigorous preventive maintenance strategy can yield numerous benefits, including increased equipment life, reduced maintenance costs, and prevention of unpredictable technical failures.
2. Corrective Maintenance
Corrective maintenance, also known as reactive maintenance, entails immediate interventions by the technical team when equipment malfunctions or breakdowns occur. During these critical moments, a maintenance technician must act swiftly to restore the equipment to working order and minimize downtime resulting from operational interruptions. To effectively oversee this maintenance approach, having a ticketing system or a fast and efficient communication system is essential. By promptly addressing faults, downtime of equipment can be minimized, and operational activities can swiftly resume.
3. Predictive Maintenance
Predictive maintenance focuses on anticipating equipment failures and breakdowns before they escalate into significant issues. This maintenance approach relies on data and analysis to forecast the optimal timing for overhauls and repairs. Implementing a CMMS software (Computerized Maintenance Management System) with specialized preventive maintenance modules can facilitate the collection and analysis of necessary data for predictive maintenance. Furthermore, employing advanced technologies like temperature and vibration sensors can furnish valuable insights into equipment health, enabling proactive interventions before major failures arise.
In a world where every minute counts, optimizing maintenance processes can make all the difference to an organization. By implementing a strategy that incorporates all three types of maintenance, utilizes advanced technologies and implementing an maintenance app, companies can ensure the optimal operation of their equipment. Consequently, maintenance costs and equipment or machinery downtime are reduced. Investing in maintenance becomes not only a necessity but also an opportunity to gain a competitive advantage in the market by enhancing operational efficiency and improving the customer experience.