Obtaining quality data during an infrared (IR) inspection hinges on the use of proper equipment, thermographer training, and knowledge of the inspected system. Thus, it’s imperative for thermographers to familiarize themselves with the construction and operation of the object(s) to be imaged before inspections begin. 1. Prior to performing an IR inspection of an object […]

A lot of Industrie 4.0 research or analysis provide big takeaways for operations personnel, management, quality departments and maintenance technicians. Many takeaways from recent research or case studies reveal the influx of how predictive analytics— data visibility— and processes are dramatically changing workforce roles, like in the case of this oil and gas example with […]

By Kristina Gordon, Illumiti Many operations that run SAP ECC (ERP Central Component) are transitioning to SAP S/4HANA. The way of the future, this cloud-based system uses an app-oriented launch pad that makes maneuvering in the system easier than ever for maintenance technicians and those working in the field. The launch pad is completely customizable to […]

By Kristina Gordon, Illumiti I receive many calls from the preventive-maintenance community requesting help closing work orders and information about error messages received when dealing with MRO (maintenance, repair, and operations). This month, I have compiled some of the most commonly encountered problems and how to resolve them. Please keep in mind that, depending on system […]

By Drew D. Troyer CRE, CMRP, Contributing Editor The subject of Weibull analysis often evokes a surprisingly negative response from members of the plant-engineering community. Some complain Weibull is only for design engineering, i.e., not usable in the plant. Others insist that since nearly all failures are random, condition monitoring is the only tool required. Those […]

Q: Why is standardized work in maintenance so important?

Most companies want to reduce their level of reactive maintenance, yet most are too busy fighting daily plant-floor issues and struggle to find a workable path toward continual improvement.

By Kristina Gordon, Illumiti Many operations that run SAP ECC (ERP Central Component) are transitioning to SAP S/4HANA. The way of the future, this cloud-based system uses an app-oriented launch pad that makes maneuvering in the system easier than ever for maintenance technicians and those working in the field. The launch pad is completely customizable to […]

As with all consumable products, lubricants have a defined shelf life. How well they are stored will directly affect their usability and service performance.

A complete lubrication-safety program involves a thorough analysis and proper implementation of purchasing, use, and disposal practices. Part of any best-practice lubrication-management program is the proactive minimization of any and all associated safety risks surrounding the purchase, use, and disposal of lubricants. This approach breaks lubrication management down into three distinct stages that guide the […]