Condition-Based Maintenance (CBM) is the strategy in which the decision to intervene depends on the observed condition of the asset rather than only on a fixed calendar. The organization measures, inspects, or tracks variables capable of indicating degradation and compares the results with technical criteria to decide whether to continue operating, intensify monitoring, investigate, schedule maintenance, or carry out an intervention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
CBM is not synonymous with installing sensors. The strategy works only when there is a relationship between the observed variable and the failure mechanism, when data collection is reliable, and when decision thresholds are associated with asset criticality and risk. Without this structure, the result tends to be a succession of unprioritized alarms or reports without action.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The main advantage is avoiding time-based interventions when condition is still acceptable and anticipating actions when actual degradation requires a response. This reduces both unnecessary maintenance and exposure to failures that could be detected before loss of function.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
The process begins with the required function of the asset and the failure modes capable of compromising that function. Parameters are then selected that change observably as the degradation mechanism evolves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
These parameters may include temperature, vibration, current, insulation resistance, pressure, flow, ultrasonic noise, oil composition, particles, moisture, partial discharges, or other variables compatible with the physical phenomenon being monitored.<\/p>\n\n\n\n