Reliability-Centered Maintenance (RCM)
Use functions, functional failures, failure modes and consequences to choose maintenance tasks conceptually.
What this topic covers
Use functions, functional failures, failure modes and consequences to choose maintenance tasks conceptually.
Core ideas
RCM begins with required function rather than a generic maintenance interval.
Some failure modes are best managed by condition-based tasks, some by scheduled restoration or replacement, and others by redesign or run-to-failure strategies where consequences permit.
Formal RCM analysis requires disciplined facilitation and asset knowledge.
Program tradeoffs
Condition-based maintenance only works when degradation can be detected with enough lead time to act.
What good evidence looks like
Backlog and work priority should reflect risk, readiness and consequence—not age alone.
Lifecycle perspective
Repeat failures are opportunities to remove causes through design, installation, operating or maintenance improvements.