In manufacturing, the typical repair job consists of identifying and replacing the failed part. This includes things like motors, breakers, fuses, and sensors. The two most common errors are identifying the wrong part as the problem and replacing a part with one that is incorrect for the application or not in serviceable condition.
A repair job might consist of making an adjustment rather than replacing something. The most common error is to assume an adjustment is needed and just start adjusting. Always take as-found data, understand what each adjustment does and how the adjustments interact, and take as-left data when done.
A repair job might consist of redoing something, for example a bolted connection that showed hot on an IR scan. Redoing a bolted connection is better than tightening it, but to redo it correctly you need all new fasteners. Once you tighten a bolt, you have stretched it and permanently deformed it. Loosening it and tightening it again to the same torque will not give you sufficient clamping.
About the Author
Mark 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.