Definition
Preventive maintenance covers recurring inspections, service tasks, and component replacements performed according to a defined schedule. Its purpose is to control known wear mechanisms and reduce unplanned downtime.
Key facts
- Triggers commonly include calendar time, operating hours, cycles, or production volume.
- Work is performed independently of the component’s currently measured condition.
- It works best for known age-related or usage-related deterioration patterns.
- Intervals that are too short can create unnecessary labor, cost, and intervention risk.
How does preventive maintenance work?
Tasks, intervals, required skills, and spare parts are defined for each relevant asset. A CMMS or EAM turns this plan into scheduled work orders and records their execution.
How do maintenance teams apply Preventive maintenance?
The approach fits components with well-understood failure patterns, mandatory inspection intervals, or severe consequences of unplanned downtime. A calendar plan offers less protection against random failures.
What is good practice for Preventive maintenance?
Intervals should be reviewed using inspection findings, failure history, and operating conditions. Every task should address a clear failure mechanism or satisfy a binding requirement.