Advanced infrared inspection
Introduction
Condition-based maintenance (in English: Condition-based maintenance or CBM) is an asset management strategy that proposes to perform maintenance interventions only when certain performance or condition indicators of the asset show signs of deterioration. It differs from traditional preventive maintenance because it does not follow fixed time intervals, but is based on data measured in real time or at defined intervals.[1].
Definition
Condition-based maintenance uses monitoring techniques to identify variations in physical parameters such as vibration, temperature, pressure or electrical current. From this data, it is determined whether a piece of equipment should be intervened to avoid failures.[2].
History
The concept emerged in the middle of the century as part of the evolution towards predictive maintenance. The development of sensors and data acquisition systems allowed us to move from manual inspections to diagnoses based on continuous monitoring.[3].
Techniques used
Among the most common techniques for applying condition-based maintenance are:
• - Vibration analysis.
• - Infrared thermography.
• - Oil analysis").
• - Ultrasound (maintenance)&action=edit&redlink=1 "Ultrasound (maintenance) (not yet written)").
• - Monitoring of electrical parameters.
Applications
CBM is used in sectors such as:
• - Power generation industry.
• - Petrochemical processes.
• - Mining and steel industry.
• - Transportation and automotive.
• - Advanced manufacturing.
An example of an application in the Latin American industry is found in the implementation of wireless sensors for predictive monitoring and diagnosis of faults in electric motors and reducers. These technologies allow abnormal conditions to be detected without the need for scheduled stops.[4][5].