What’s PM Optimization (PMO) & How do I do it?

PM optimization (or PMO) is the process of making sure preventive maintenance is handled as efficiently and effectively as possible.

Specifically, the end result should be that PMs are:

• Performed correctly
• Completed at proper intervals
• Targeted at the correct assets and parts

3 Approaches to PMO

Optimizing preventive maintenance typically begins with one of three approaches:

1. FRACAS (failure reporting, analysis, and corrective action system)
2. RCM (reliability centered maintenance)
3. Judgment-based analysis

1. FRACAS

FRACAS is a highly efficient approach to PMO because it uses existing asset failure data to inform PM planning decisions. That data, often logged into a CMMS, can be used to determine the right strategies for each asset.

2. RCM

Reliability centered maintenance, or RCM, is more time-consuming than FRACAS because it uses FMEA (failure mode effects analysis) to reason out the risks of each failure mode. PMs are planned based on inductive reasoning.

3. Judgement-based

The least precise—yet easiest—way to approach PMO is by using the best judgment of operators and maintenance personnel. It’s not as accurate as using FRACAS or RCM, but it’s not nearly as time-consuming either.

Optimizing PMs

Using one (or more) of the above approaches, you can plan out your PMs for each asset. Your preventive maintenance plan should include the following:

• Specific tasks for each asset
• Standard procedures for performing each task
• Frequency for each PM
• Necessary replacement parts and tools
• Safety and environmental considerations
• Time estimates per PM task
• Acceptable parameters for inspected parts

With failure mode data, inductive reasoning, or your best judgment, define each of the above and write it down. Then put it into action, collect data from work orders, and make adjustments as needed.