Why do Machines Fail?

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The source of machine failure can begin from drawing board to poor maintenance practices and machine operating conditions. Every step of how the machine is fabricated, assembled, installed, and overhauled contributes to the life of the machine.

To identify potential problems of machine failure, we have to pay close attention to the initial machine specification, balancing and alignment, routine maintenance, lubrication, overhaul procedures and acceptance testing. We may not have control over all those steps or any of those steps; however, an understanding of the potential problems can lead to future change.

Competitive business world could result in reduced budgets, fewer staff, and greater production efficiency. The requirements to operate the plant more efficiently becomes much more important, but at the same time, much more challenging and difficult. The main goal is to improve product quality through precision maintenance. Achieving such goal will not happen in a few days; it will not happen unless everyone is onboard with strong determination and discipline. From the person who does the motor rewinds, to the person who does the maintenance, everyone needs to understand the benefits of achieving the goal.

It takes a change in mindset throughout an organization to achieve the goal. If the management does not understand what it takes to achieve it, the benefits cannot be realized. If every person involved in monitoring machine conditions and does not understand and believe in the goal, gain will be limited. And if other staff in engineering, production, and operation do not understand and believe in the goal, success will be limited. It is not an easy task to cause a change in company philosophy, but everyone must do what they can.