Our team recently attended SMRP’s 33rd Annual Conference in Fort Worth to connect with fellow reliability and maintenance professionals and explore the future of rotating equipment maintenance. Here’s what we learned.
Takeaway #1: Even the best tools need expertise to drive them.
“There’s a desire for AI-driven vibration analysis, but there seems to be a disconnect with customer expectations and what AI can actually deliver.”
– Mark Couch, Account Director & ISO Category IV Vibration Analyst
AI-powered vibration monitoring and analysis technology can quickly examine large amounts of data to identify anomalies that need a closer look from an analyst. From there, the reliability technicians can perform the nuanced work that AI can’t quite replicate.
Takeaway #2: Know who will own your data before investing in new technology.
“Data ownership is often an overlooked factor when deciding on condition monitoring technology.”
– Alyssa Staats, Vice President of Business Development
Depending on who you choose to partner with, you won’t always own your condition monitoring data. Some vendors may treat your data as your property, while others may only allow you to view your data and any associated diagnostic reports. Keep this in mind when selecting a condition monitoring partner.
Takeaway #3: Analysts bring context to the table that AI can’t.
“The value of a real analyst is still being discovered as sites are leaning on AI for its machine health reporting.”
– C.J. Shirah, Account Director & ISO Category III Vibration Analyst
AI can identify patterns in data, but analysts can determine what those patterns mean. Reliability technicians are able to leverage their experience to tell the difference between a serious issue or a normal machine variation.
Takeaway #4: The maintenance industry faces a growing talent gap.
“A common theme I observed in many of my classes was the ‘hurdle’ of a shortage of skilled labor, particularly within maintenance and reliability.”
– Mark Couch, Account Director & ISO Category IV Vibration Analyst
With maintenance professionals in short supply, experienced reliability technicians and trusted partners are becoming more valuable than technology alone. It still takes analysts to interpret information, identify root causes and prevent future issues.
Takeaway #5: Choosing the right partner is just as important (if not more so) than choosing the latest technology.
“There are a lot of partners in the marketplace. If you know your people, your processes and your financials, find the one who can elevate all three.”
– Alyssa Staats, Vice President of Business Development
At Cornerstone Mechanical, we combine the latest technology with decades of hands-on experience to keep your rotating equipment running smoothly. Browse our rotating equipment maintenance services to see how we can help you.