At the last technology evening, Gary Bantich from EOH Process Automation Solutions, presented on the role of instrumentation in the maintenance philosophies and practices of organisations to date and going forward. Traditional thinking has confined instrumentation to the control arena; but current instrumentation can play a significant role in the further development of predictive maintenance methodologies by adding a system or process diagnostic element.
Gary Friend (left) thanks Gary Bantich after the presentation.
The use of instrumentation in medical illness diagnosis, and the resultant systematic analysis thereof, were used to illustrate how the adoption of evolving technologies and automation systems can provide insight and guidance on the enhancement of predictive maintenance practices.
A synopsis of the evolution of maintenance methodologies gave an insight into current practices and their shortcomings with respect to electrical and electronic components and systems within the industrial environment. Examples from the aircraft industry were shared to highlight the gaps in the maintenance methodologies currently being used to develop preventative and predictive maintenance practices. The presentation generated debate that challenged the following paradox that exists in industry: We never have resources (time, money, people) to do proactive problem-solving and to prevent the problem from happening, but we always have resources to fix the problem reactively.
The incorporation of instrumentation and allied technologies can help significantly in resolving this paradox. This will require a drive and willingness within organisations to challenge the current status quo in terms of the role of instrumentation and the use thereof.
The SAIMC would like to thank Gary for his informative presentation, which was well attended and received.
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