Which maintenance strategy is based on monitoring the condition of equipment?

Predictive maintenance is a strategy that relies heavily on monitoring the condition of equipment to predict when maintenance should be performed. This approach uses various diagnostic tools and techniques to assess the actual state of key parameters and equipment performance. By observing data over time, such as vibration analysis, temperature readings, or fluid analysis, it allows for informed decision-making regarding maintenance scheduling.

The core principle behind predictive maintenance is to perform maintenance just before equipment failure is likely to occur, optimizing maintenance resources and minimizing downtime. The goal is to extend the equipment lifespan and improve reliability by addressing potential issues proactively rather than reactively.

This method contrasts with other strategies like preventive maintenance, which is scheduled at fixed intervals regardless of the equipment's actual condition, or corrective maintenance, which occurs after a failure has happened. Condition-based maintenance, while similar, often focuses solely on specific indicators of performance rather than providing a broader predictive analysis.