Does Preventive (interval based) maintenance often lead to unnecessary overhauls?

Preventive maintenance, which is performed at regular intervals regardless of the condition of the equipment, can indeed lead to unnecessary overhauls. This practice is based on the assumption that by maintaining equipment regularly, failures can be prevented. However, if the equipment is functioning well and does not require such maintenance, the procedures might result in unnecessary disruptions and overhauls.

By adhering strictly to a preventive schedule, maintenance resources may be utilized for tasks that are not needed, potentially leading to increased costs and downtime. Instead of relying solely on a time-based approach, many organizations are now shifting towards condition-based maintenance strategies, which assess the actual performance and condition of the equipment to determine the best time for intervention. This proactive approach minimizes unnecessary repairs and optimizes maintenance resources.

In summary, while preventive maintenance has its benefits, it can lead to overhauls that may not be warranted, thus supporting the assertion that it often leads to unnecessary interventions when not appropriately aligned with the actual needs of the machinery.