Definition
A bill of materials (BOM) is a structured list identifying every part, with part number and quantity, that makes up a specific asset or assembly: the reference used to determine exactly what is needed to maintain, repair, or rebuild that asset. It is asset-specific and structural, distinct from a spare parts catalog, which is organized for selecting and identifying parts across the wider inventory.
Key facts
- Specific to one asset or assembly: lists exactly what that item is built from, with quantities.
- The reference used to determine what parts to order or stock when planning maintenance or repair on that specific asset.
- Distinct from a spare parts catalog, which is organized around selecting parts generally, not tied to one specific assembly's structure.
- Should be kept aligned with as-built documentation, since field substitutions can make the BOM inaccurate if not updated.
What information does Bill of Materials preserve?
A bill of materials lists every component that makes up a specific asset or assembly, down to the individual part number and quantity required: a structural breakdown used to know exactly what to order or stock when maintaining or rebuilding that particular item.
How do maintenance teams use Bill of Materials?
A bill of materials is structured around one specific asset or assembly, showing what makes it up. A spare parts catalog is organized more broadly around identifying and selecting available parts across the wider inventory, potentially spanning many different assets and assemblies at once.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Which parts belong to an asset or assembly?
The bill of materials identifies them: a structured list of every part, with part number and quantity, that makes up that specific asset or assembly.
Last reviewed: