What type of maintenance is performed on equipment before it breaks down?

Preventive maintenance is performed proactively on equipment to prevent breakdowns before they occur. This type of maintenance involves scheduled inspections, adjustments, and servicing of equipment according to a set plan. The goal is to extend the lifespan of the equipment, reduce unplanned downtime, and maintain optimal performance by addressing potential issues before they result in a failure.

For instance, changing oil in machinery, replacing worn belts or filters, and lubricating moving parts routinely are examples of preventive maintenance. This approach helps in identifying and mitigating risks associated with equipment failure, which can result in operational delays and increased repair costs.

In contrast, reactive maintenance involves responding to equipment failures after they occur, while corrective maintenance addresses specific defects noted during operations. Predictive maintenance, on the other hand, uses data and analytics to predict when equipment will require maintenance based on its current condition rather than on a fixed schedule.