Understanding the Difference Between Preventive and Corrective Maintenance Tasks

Question:

Can anyone provide a precise distinction between preventive maintenance and corrective maintenance in terms of the types of tasks that fall under each category?

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In the realm of maintenance activities, there are tasks that can be easily classified as either preventative maintenance (PM) or corrective maintenance. However, some tasks fall into a gray area where classification may differ depending on the plant or planner. In my experience, time-based tasks that are well-structured and planned ahead with clear scope and resources should be categorized as PMs. It is important not to confuse corrective maintenance with addressing issues during a PM task. Likewise, PM tasks should not be extended beyond their standard scope to address corrective actions. Some minor corrective actions identified during observations or through PM/PdM methods may actually be considered preventative in terms of cost savings. On the other hand, repairs stemming from failures resulting in shutdowns, operations beyond safe limits, or production limitations are considered corrective actions. Best regards, Ali M. Al-Shurafa.

Hi Terry, Corrective maintenance is defined as maintenance performed after the detection of a failure, either through scheduled PM inspections or the use of PdM tools. The main objective is to bring the asset back to its original condition. If repairs are made during a breakdown, it falls under reactive maintenance. Corrective maintenance is closely tied to PM or PdM activities. For instance, during a PM Inspection where chain elongation is checked using a gauge, the actual checking process is part of the PM work. If the gauge indicates that the chain is worn and needs replacement, that becomes a corrective maintenance task. Usually, a separate work order is generated to address the replacement need as per our procedure guidelines: less than 1% wear requires no action, 1%-2% wear necessitates a replacement work order for corrective maintenance, and greater than 2% wear calls for immediate chain replacement along with a subsequent work order, also classified as corrective maintenance. As far as I know, there are 7 types of PM tasks: Inspections, calibrations, adjustments, lubrication, rebuilds/overhauls, testing, and time-based replacements. These tasks are all carried out based on set time intervals.

Maintenance strategies play a crucial role in ensuring the reliability and longevity of equipment. These strategies include breakdown maintenance, which involves fixing equipment only when it fails, as well as planned preventive maintenance that is scheduled based on time or performance indicators. Additionally, maintenance tasks may involve plant changes or modifications to improve efficiency. Shutdown maintenance is also important for conducting essential maintenance procedures. Non-core maintenance tasks are also necessary to keep equipment running smoothly.

Corrective maintenance involves reacting to failures, while preventive maintenance entails proactively identifying and addressing potential warning signs to prevent failures from occurring. By staying vigilant and addressing issues before they escalate, businesses can avoid costly downtime and disruptions in operations. Proactive maintenance strategies enhance equipment reliability and longevity, ultimately leading to improved productivity and reduced maintenance costs.

While this thread may be outdated and quiet, it's always helpful to stumble upon valuable information. Check out this article I wrote discussing various types of maintenance practices.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

FAQ: 1. What is the difference between preventive maintenance and corrective maintenance?

Answer: Answer: Preventive maintenance involves tasks performed proactively to prevent equipment failure, while corrective maintenance is done reactively to fix issues that have already occurred.

FAQ: 2. What types of tasks are typically considered preventive maintenance?

Answer: Answer: Preventive maintenance tasks include routine inspections, lubrication, adjustments, and replacing worn components to keep equipment in optimal condition.

FAQ: 3. Which tasks are classified as corrective maintenance?

Answer: Answer: Corrective maintenance tasks involve repairing equipment failures, troubleshooting issues, and restoring equipment to working order after a breakdown has occurred.

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