Batching PM/PdM Per Component Instead of Asset

You can multiply the savings by 10, while also having maintenance eyes on the equipment more frequently.

Generally, equipment does not all go into service at the same time. Preventive maintenance (PM) and predictive maintenance (PdM) schedules for a given asset normally begin with its first day of operation. If you have a large spread (and you probably do), you may have an opportunity to significantly reduce maintenance costs while uncovering problems sooner.

Suppose the plant has 12 major production lines. All have similar components that can be checked in some way without requiring downtime. Examples include motors, motor drives, terminations, gages and other display units, and sensors.

Rather than task individual maintenance techs to assemble the same test equipment and related tools 12 separate times, put certain maintenance tasks for all 12 lines on the same PM. The PM data still gets recorded on a per asset basis, but the work gets done by one person or crew on a single trip from the shop.

If you identify 10 such tasks, you multiply the savings by 10. You also have maintenance eyes on the equipment 10 times more frequently.

About the Author

Mark Lamendola

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.

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