How PM Optimization Improves Reliability and Reduces Unplanned Downtime

In this episode of Great Question: A Manufacturing Podcast, Thomas Wilk, chief editor of Plant Services, is joined by Brian Hronchek, principal trainer and consultant with Eruditio, to discuss a topic in the air these days: PM optimization. These efforts start with the question, “What is the outcome that you want?” And that outcome is for the seasoned technician and the new technician to be able to return exactly the same results when they do the same inspection on a mechanical asset.

Key takeaways

• PM optimization starts with clear goals: inspections should yield identical results from both seasoned and new technicians.
• Many PMs lack value—use metrics like PM/PdM yield to identify and improve or eliminate ineffective tasks.
• Aligning maintenance with planning and scheduling reduces downtime and prevents reactive repair chaos.
• Trimming bloated PMs and focusing on useful inspections can boost uptime, cut stress, and streamline production.