Types of Maintenance Programs Explained

Run-to-Failure Maintenance
Run to failure occurs when repair action is not taken until a problem results in machine failure. Run-to-failure problems often cause costly secondary damage along with unplanned downtime and maintenance costs. Run-to-failure maintenance strategies are extremely risky when it comes to critical, expensive equipment that may take months to years to replace with significant costs. 

Preventive Maintenance 
Preventive maintenance is a process where a machine, or parts of a machine, are overhauled on a regular basis regardless of the condition of the parts. While this is preferable to run-to-failure maintenance, preventive maintenance is costly because of excessive downtime from unnecessary overhauls and the cost of replacing possible good parts. 

Predictive Maintenance 
Predictive maintenance is a process of determining the condition of machinery while in operation. This enables the repair of problem components prior to failure. Condition monitoring not only helps plant personnel reduce the possibility of catastrophic failure, but also allows them to order parts in advance, schedule manpower, and plan other repairs during the downtime.