Maintenance plays a key role in times of digitalization and automation. Data has always been collected here, which is now needed for process optimization and an effective Industry 4.0 strategy. Interdisciplinary collaboration with all affected departments makes maintenance the backbone of the company.
By integrating smart maintenance concepts, improved system availability, efficiency, sustainability and cost optimization can be achieved. But why do many companies still see maintenance as a necessary evil that only creates costs? Maintenance workers are often met with rejection from their superiors when it comes to necessary investments, according to the motto: This has worked well for years! In doing so, they overlook the opportunities to strengthen their competitiveness through investments in innovative technologies.
So at the turn of the year, let's take a look into the imaginary crystal ball to make the skeptics think! We see these five megatrends for maintenance in 2024:
- Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI):
Development of predictive maintenance models for system monitoring.
Early detection of errors through machine learning.
Optimization of maintenance plans and spare parts supply chains.
Analysis of plant data using AI for process and plant optimization.
- Digital twin:
Virtual simulation of production processes before commissioning.
Detecting and optimizing possible problems in advance.
Planning proactive maintenance measures and calculating the return on investment.
- Industrial Metaverse:
Virtual factory as an extension of the digital twin.
Using Extended Reality (XR) for immersive simulations and interventions.
Optimization of processes, changes and maintenance processes in virtual space.
Training, education and training
- Automation and robotics:
Process automation for increased efficiency and improved process control.
Use of autonomous systems such as drones and inspection robots.
Automated inspections around the clock, even in difficult-to-access or dangerous environments.
Automated maintenance processes with digital documentation
- Eco-efficiency:
Intelligent maintenance as the key to resource and recyclables management.
Reduction of environmental pollution by preventing system downtime
Cost reduction through higher energy and material efficiency.
Inclusion of ecological, economic and social factors in planning.
Conclusion
Digital transformation makes maintenance the driving force of production. The outdated image of the colleague with the oil can who only shows up when there are defects is a thing of the past. A holistic maintenance strategy can optimize production processes, save resources and turn maintenance from a cost generator into a profit center. Investments in a future-oriented maintenance strategy should therefore be prioritized to maximize value creation.
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