Just when is a repair done? Some experts say to perform a full PM so the equipment has a fresh start. Others say to perform baseline testing, so you can use the next set of test data to spot equipment degradation.
The problem with either approach is there’s only so much time. So, are these people wrong? The real answer, in either case, is it depends. Any time you invest in one repair is less time you have for other repairs. Here are some factors to consider:
- Equipment criticality. You have a list of critical equipment. Anything on this list should probably get baseline testing and at least a partial PM.
- Equipment type. Baseline testing on a feeder cable after replacement is very cost-effective and worth the time. Conducting a battery of tests on a motor, probably not.
- Difficulty/cost of access/repair. Consider these factors versus failure likelihood. If 80% of the repair cost involves getting at the part or system being replaced, then a full PM is probably a good idea before putting everything back together.
- Cost of one downtime incident. The lower this cost, the less time should be allocated to doing more than the repair itself.