Predictive maintenance (PdM) is type of preventive maintenance performed continuously or at intervals according to the requirements to diagnose and monitor a condition or system. Predictive maintenance (PdM) is also called condition based maintenance. Predictive maintenance (PdM) techniques help determine the condition of in-service equipment in order to predict when maintenance should be performed. This approach offers cost savings over routine or time-based preventive maintenance because tasks are performed only when warranted.

Objective of PdM

Predictive maintenance (PdM) is a set of techniques used to manage the maintenance of high-cost equipment that experiences extremely low failure rates. So main objective of predictive maintenance (PdM) is to reduce lost production caused by failures and increase overall profit.
PdM Philosophy employs these techniques

• Surveillance,
• Diagnosis,
• Remedy

Goal of the PdM

Reliability-centered maintenance, or RCM, emphasizes the use of predictive maintenance (PdM) techniques in addition to traditional preventive measures. The ultimate goal of PdM is to perform maintenance at a scheduled point in time when the maintenance activity is most cost-effective and before the equipment loses optimum performance.

Statistical Models

• Pareto Analysis - # of Failures
• Forecasting Total Maintenance Cost using Exp SMG
• Breakdown Analysis Using Up Time and Downtime Hrs
• Forecasting Time Between Failures Using Exp SMG

Major Steps in PdM

• Alignment
• Balancing
• Infrared
• Motor Testing
• Oil Analysis
• Power Quality

Business Benefits of PdM

• Eliminate unnecessary maintenance
• Reduce repair parts inventory
• Increase process efficiency
• Improve product quality
• Extend the operating life of plant systems
• Increase production capacity
• Reduce overall maintenance cost