When requesting a manufacturer for new equipment, it is important to ensure that the minimum necessary documents are included with the asset. Recently, I came across a subpar Operating and Maintenance Manual for a high-value piece of equipment, lacking a recommended spares list and troubleshooting guide. Is there a standard set of content that should be included in a maintenance manual? Are companies typically requesting Failure Mode and Effects Analyses (FMEAs) or Reliability-Centered Maintenance (RCM) as part of the required documentation?
In the competitive world of equipment supply, pricing and performance are key factors driving clients' decisions. Suppliers often prioritize meeting delivery deadlines, price points, and quality standards, with documentation for operation and maintenance sometimes overlooked. However, in industries like refineries and processing plants where custom-built equipment is common, detailed operating and maintenance manuals can be challenging to produce. These manuals are typically generic and may not include long-term user data. Despite this, clients can usually expect to receive a spare parts list, basic maintenance plan, and drawings when purchasing equipment. Negotiation opportunities may arise during the procurement process, but suppliers rarely disclose information on potential equipment failures. Moving forward, it may be beneficial for clients to inquire about this aspect.
I have always overlooked the specific details that you are questioning. I typically receive incomplete explanations and general maintenance information, often in the form of an Illustrated Parts Breakdown (IPB) and supplementary subcomponent literature related to drives, clutches, printers, bearings, or other components. When possible, I make sure to obtain a disk copy for easier reference. Detailed repair manuals are hard to come by, and most are written at a basic level. I also never receive any updates or notifications for changes. As a result, I always contact an engineer for complex system repairs.
Absolutely, when acquiring new equipment, it's of utmost importance to have comprehensive documentation to ensure optimal utilization and maintenance. Besides the basic operating instructions and maintenance procedures, these should ideally include safety guidelines, troubleshooting guide, spare parts list, and technical specifications. Including FMEAs is indeed a great idea as it helps in understanding potential risks and failures. While each industry might have its own specifics, the inclusion of a Reliability-Centered Maintenance (RCM) document could ensure a more predictive approach to maintenance and extend equipment lifespan. However, the requirement for this varies and is often requested by companies operating in more critical or high-stakes sectors. To cover all bases, it's best to discuss all of these requirements with the manufacturer beforehand to make distressing aftershocks less likely.
✅ Work Order Management
✅ Asset Tracking
✅ Preventive Maintenance
✅ Inspection Report
We have received your information. We will share Schedule Demo details on your Mail Id.
Answer: - A maintenance manual for new equipment should typically include essential information such as operating procedures, maintenance schedules, recommended spares list, troubleshooting guide, safety precautions, and warranty details.
Answer: - Yes, some companies may request FMEAs or RCM as part of the required documentation to ensure the equipment's reliability and durability over its lifecycle. These analyses can help identify potential failure modes and develop proactive maintenance strategies.
Join hundreds of satisfied customers who have transformed their maintenance processes.
Sign up today and start optimizing your workflow.