Page 13 - Improving Machinery Reliability

Introduction

The View of an Advocate for Change*

Machinery reliability management in the process industries can be
divided into three phases: equipment selection and pre-erection reliability
assurance, preparation for effective startup, and post-startup reliability
assurance and maintenance cost reduction. All of these phases are impor-
tant; they are intertwined and merit equal attention. The techniques and
procedures described in this text cover essential elements of each phase;
they have been critically examined and have led to substantially
improved reliability and maintenance efficiencies. Adoption of applica-
ble techniques and procedures at your plant is certain to result in similar
benefits.
In the quest for increased reliability, multiple dimensions must be con-
sidered.
The first is whether maximum profitability for a given enterprise and
maximum reliability are one and the same. Recent interviews with expe-
rienced individuals indicate a growing awareness that business-operating
and profit models often change dramatically with time and other factors.
The latter include status of product sales (sold out or not sold out), level
of inventory, alternative sources, and facility design life. The funds nec-
essary to maintain and improve reliability must fit profitably within the
enterprise business model.
Next are the methods and practices that must be established and main-
tained to assure optimum reliability. Good design and installation prac-
tices, improved components and materials, condition-directed mainte-
nance, root cause identification and correction are the subjects dealt with
in this book. All are vital and must be addressed. Success demands more
than awareness. Acceptance and top-down commitment to optimizing
reliability are mandatory.

*Contributed by John S. Mitchell, San Juan Capistrano, California. Adapted by permission.

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