Glossary
What is Reliability-Centered Maintenance?
Reliability-centered maintenance (RCM) is a process for deciding what maintenance is appropriate for each asset—based on failure modes, consequences and cost-effectiveness. It aims to preserve function and avoid unnecessary maintenance. RCM analysis often results in a mix of preventive, predictive and run-to-failure strategies.
What it means
RCM is used to design or optimise maintenance strategies. It is more analytical than simply 'doing PM on everything' and can reduce over-maintenance while protecting critical functions.
Why it matters
- RCM analyses failure modes and consequences per asset.
- It recommends the right type of maintenance (PM, PdM, reactive) per failure mode.
- Not every asset needs the same level of PM.
- RCM outputs can be implemented as PM plans in a CMMS.
Example in maintenance operations
RCM on a pump: bearing failure has high consequence (downtime); lubrication is cost-effective → add PM. Seal failure is lower consequence and predictable → add inspection. Result: PM and inspection tasks in CMMS.
Related concepts
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