The Elusive P-F Curve by Murray Wiseman (Extracted from Reliability-Centered Knowledge) 

J. Moubray coined the phrase  "P-F interval". He used it to highlight two pre-requisites of CBM, namely:

1. A clear indicator of decreased failure resistance - the potential failure, and
2. A reasonably consistent warning period prior to functional failure - the P-F interval

 Both these requirements are captured in the well known empirical graph of failure resistance versus working age

RCM Blitz™ is a Reliability Tool designed to develop a complete maintenance strategy for a process or piece of equipment.  When implemented this maintenance strategy will help to ensure the inherent designed reliability of any process or asset.  Performing an RCM analysis takes an investment in time and resources to complete so I always advise my clients to follow the RCM Blitz™ process to ensure the equipment they have selected to analyze will show a return on their investment dollars.

More...Click here to read When and How to Template An RCM Analysis

In this chapter, we will introduce the basic concepts that constitute what is known as Reliability-Centered Maintenance. Initially, however, we will briefly discuss how PM has evolved in the industrial world, and most importantly, we will look at how one of the basic tenets of reliability engineering—the “bathtub curve”—can and should influence the formulation of PM tasks. Next, we will look at how the commercial aviation industry was historically the motivating force behind the creation of the RCM methodology during the Type Certification process for the 747 aircraft in the 1960s. Finally, we will itemize the four basic features that constitute the necessary and sufficient conditions or principles that define RCM, and discuss some of the cost-benefit considerations that can accrue through the use of RCM.

More...Click here to read Chapter 4 of Reliability-Centered Maintenance (117k pdf)

Business Centered Maintenance Management

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Moving from a Repair-Focused to a Reliability-Focused Culture
By Sandy Dunn, Director, Assetivity Pty Ltd

• Ensuring a Long-Term Strategic Focus
• Aligning Reward Systems with Strategic Goals
• Better Integration between Production and Maintenance
• Creating Opportunities for Teamwork and Organizational Learning
• Strong, Committed Leadership

More...Click here to read Moving from a Repair-focused to a Reliability-focused Culture (105k .pdf)

RCM Success Starts with CMMS
by Ruth Olszewski, CMMS data group, inc.

The degree to which RCM analysis can contribute to profitability is directly variable with the quality and accuracy of the CMMS data on which the analysis is based.  Because the technique is rigorous, its over-use will defeat the purpose and lead to cost overruns instead of savings.  The way to optimize the RCM return is to apply the analysis strictly to the equipment and systems that will pay off from it, and to know this we must rely on the CMMS.  This paper provides guidance for ensuring that the equipment data and history residing in a CMMS are complete and accurate; so that RCM analysis will be a success and positively impact a company’s bottom line, not hurt it.

More...Click here to read RCM Success Starts with CMMS (186k pdf)

RCM Facilitation Strategies
By Douglas J. Plucknette, Reliability Solutions Inc.

Anyone who has participated or facilitated an RCM analysis knows this can be a major undertaking for a business.  If the process is not facilitated in an effective manor, the team can become frustrated and the analysis can drag on forever.  The key to keeping the process on track is knowing about then applying effective RCM facilitation strategies.  For this article I will list in order of preference, several facilitation strategies along with the benefits and drawbacks of each strategy.

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Starting & Maintaining a Successful RCM Effort
By Douglas J. Plucknette, Reliability Solutions Inc.

As a Manufacturing Reliability Consultant, I am often asked by clients “How do we make sure our RCM program doesn’t become the program of the month”?  I always give the same answer a proven formula that has worked well for many clients, Plan – Measure – Train – Perform – Implement and Communicate.  Follow this formula without skipping any steps and RCM will become a way of life for your business and not “The program of the month”.

More...Click here to read Starting & Maintaining a Successful RCM Effort (151k pdf)