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PM

PM — Preventive Maintenance

A maintenance approach that performs scheduled activities to reduce the likelihood of equipment failure.

Definition

Preventive Maintenance (PM) is a maintenance strategy in which inspections, servicing, adjustments and component replacements are performed at predetermined intervals to reduce the probability of equipment failure and maintain reliable operation. Preventive Maintenance is based on elapsed time, operating hours or other scheduled criteria rather than equipment condition.

Why It Matters

Preventive Maintenance reduces the likelihood of equipment failures through planned maintenance performed at predetermined intervals.

In Practice

Preventive Maintenance schedules are typically developed using manufacturer recommendations, engineering experience, regulatory requirements and historical equipment performance.

Common Misuse

Preventive Maintenance is performed according to predetermined schedules, whereas Predictive Maintenance uses condition data and analytical techniques to forecast future failures.

Term Details
Synonyms:
PM; Preventive Maintenance; Scheduled Maintenance; Time-Based Maintenance
Classification:
Maintenance & Work Management
Methodology
Intermediate
Applications

Maintenance Management; Reliability Engineering; Asset Management.

Where It's Used

Manufacturing.; Oil and gas.; Petrochemical.; Utilities.; Infrastructure.

References

ISO 55000

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