It is common for small manufacturing enterprises to service metalworking benches, which are equipped with machines that are a key element of effective work. Organized and timely technical maintenance allows you to extend the service life and minimize downtime.
What is technical maintenance?
Technical maintenance covers a wide range of activities that contribute to the efficiency and reliability of equipment. The main aspects of this process include:
- Ensuring maximum productivity and operational efficiency;
- Maintaining readiness for uninterrupted and trouble-free operation;
- Proper usage and upkeep of machines, devices, and installations.
Technical maintenance involves troubleshooting, preventive inspections, equipment monitoring, life cycle management, and routine servicing.
The most important goals of plant maintenance
Modern technical maintenance extends beyond standard repairs and aims to achieve the following goals:
- Ensuring equipment availability: Minimizing downtime and increasing productivity.
- Readiness for continuous operation: Ensuring uninterrupted production processes.
- Risk management: Mitigating operational risks and enhancing worker safety.
- Efficient resource utilization: Managing spare parts, consumables, and energy use effectively.
Senior managers develop maintenance strategies, assess operational risks, and oversee planning and execution. These responsibilities also include maintaining a registry of spare parts, conducting corrective and preventive maintenance, and improving energy efficiency.
Why is proper maintenance so important?
Neglecting maintenance can lead to unexpected downtime, disruption of production processes, and reduced product quality. Additionally, such situations can compromise industrial safety.
A systematic approach to technical maintenance is a vital part of production management:
- Prevention: Scheduled inspections help identify issues early.
- Timely repairs: Reduces the severity and impact of equipment failures.
- Focus on personnel: Improved employee training reduces the risk of improper equipment use.
Basic maintenance tools
Various tools and systems are used to manage technical services, ranging from simple to advanced:
- Small businesses often rely on Excel or basic free programs.
- Medium and large enterprises use specialized IT systems, such as CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management Systems).
CMMS systems enable:
- Monitoring equipment performance;
- Managing issues and repairs;
- Planning and tracking preventive and corrective maintenance activities.
These systems are typically categorized into three main functions:
- Monitoring equipment efficiency (e.g., OEE metrics);
- Visualizing and controlling production processes;
- Managing data on the equipment fleet.
The implementation of CMMS enhances the performance of both technical departments and the broader organization. It allows for real-time control over spare part inventories, automates maintenance scheduling, and improves equipment reliability.