Preventive Maintenance vs. Reactive Maintenance

Reactive maintenance is a strategy that repairs or replaces equipment only after an issue arises. This strategy can be appealing for several reasons. This method can save money by eliminating unnecessary maintenance costs and maximizing production time. Additionally, this method aims to maximize the lifespan of machinery parts by only replacing them when necessary.  

However, the cost of reactive maintenance only becomes apparent after a breakdown. Emergency repairs are costly. Besides the downtime needed for repairs, emergency services tend to cost more than scheduled maintenance. Unplanned downtime also tends to take longer, as you first must identify what needs fixing before you can repair it. The repairs needed may not be apparent, especially if they are not regularly inspected and maintained. Every extra minute spent repairing systems costs manufacturers money. Additionally, equipment that is continuously pushed to its limit is at increased risk of additional problems due to extra stress from vibrations, debris, and overheating. This extra stress ultimately leads to a shorter lifespan than properly maintained equipment, and even greater costs when it inevitably needs to be replaced.

Preventive Maintenance Keeps You Moving

Preventive maintenance allows you to schedule regular downtime for maintenance and repairs. The goal is to identify and prevent issues before they lead to larger problems. In addition to extending the life of your equipment, preventative maintenance prevents unplanned downtime. This method gives you the power to schedule downtime at times that best fit your facility’s schedule, such as between shift changes or while other equipment requires maintenance. With planned maintenance, you have a better idea of how long the downtime will last compared to unplanned downtime. By preordering parts and components and scheduling labor, preventive maintenance controls the costs associated with repairs.

What Services does AFS Offer?

Ashworth Factory Service is with you from beginning to end, from engineering reviews, product recommendations, and system reconfigurations to installations and commissioning, as well as repair services. AFS can also help you plan your preventive maintenance, including scheduled system audits, maintenance recommendations, and providing on-site training for your team. Request service today at https://www.ashworth.com/support/requests/request-factory-service/