Tools for Analyzing and Planning
The CMMS can be a fantastic tool for analyzing and planning, yet it is often used merely as a work order system. A modern CMMS allows you to slice and dice data in ways that provide insight into potential trouble or improvement. Explore the various reports your system can generate, and you will see not only questions you hadn’t thought of, but also the answers.
At one time, every CMMS relied on manual data entry (usually from paper forms). Today, we have DMMs that can wirelessly transmit measurements to the CMMS. Even better, we have a variety of sensors that can supply condition data between PMs. For example, you can equip every motor in the plant with wireless vibration sensors. The cost “could” be a reason not to do this if downtime for a given motor isn’t costly, but why not be able to see the vibration status of all motors at a meta level? At a glace, you can tell that all the motors are fine except one is showing signs of trouble.
About the Author
Mark LamendolaMark Lamendola
Mark is an expert in maintenance management, having racked up an impressive track record during his time working in the field. He also has extensive knowledge of, and practical expertise with, the National Electrical Code (NEC). Through his consulting business, he provides articles and training materials on electrical topics, specializing in making difficult subjects easy to understand and focusing on the practical aspects of electrical work.
Prior to starting his own business, Mark served as the Technical Editor on EC&M for six years, worked three years in nuclear maintenance, six years as a contract project engineer/project manager, three years as a systems engineer, and three years in plant maintenance management.
Mark earned an AAS degree from Rock Valley College, a BSEET from Columbia Pacific University, and an MBA from Lake Erie College. He’s also completed several related certifications over the years and even was formerly licensed as a Master Electrician. He is a Senior Member of the IEEE and past Chairman of the Kansas City Chapters of both the IEEE and the IEEE Computer Society. Mark also served as the program director for, a board member of, and webmaster of, the Midwest Chapter of the 7x24 Exchange. He has also held memberships with the following organizations: NETA, NFPA, International Association of Webmasters, and Institute of Certified Professional Managers.