Principles for Determining Spare Parts for Rotating Equipment
Rotating equipment, such as pumps and turbines, are the most common type of industrial machinery. They are the focus of this paper and the principles used to determine important spare parts for such equipment.
Spare parts are essential and often cost-saving components that are held in stock in case of an emergency or preventative maintenance needs. Holding spare parts helps to minimize downtime due to unexpected repairs and maximize the overall efficiency of an operation. The type of spare parts needed can vary depending on the operation but generally include critical components such as bearings and seals, which are often common across a range of equipment.
In determining the most appropriate spare parts, it is important to consider the criticality of the component. While the cost of components can be an important factor, reliability is usually more important and can dictate the types of spare parts required. Critical components assemblies, such as seals and bearings, should be selected with an eye toward reliability and not just cost.
Additionally, spare parts should also be considered using risk based analysis. This type of analysis essentially weighs the risk of failure against the cost of holding spare parts. For example, if a component is likely to fail but is relatively inexpensive to replace, a spare part may be the best way to mitigate the potential risk. A risk-based approach considers more than just the cost, it considers the potential catastrophic cost.
Other factors to consider when selecting spare parts for rotating equipment include availability and accessibility. Parts for emergency repairs should be readily available, as downtime can be expensive and disrupt a production schedule. Selecting spare parts that are available locally can also be beneficial, as international delivery can take long periods of time.
For preventive maintenance, selecting spares that are regularly used can often make the process of carrying out maintenance less expensive. If a particular component has frequent maintenance requirements, having a spare part specific to that component can reduce time and costs associated with ordering the parts each time.
Finally, consideration should be given to the actual use of the equipment. It is likely that the manufacturer of the rotating equipment will have a preferred spare parts list. This should be consulted prior to ordering spare parts, as this list will likely represent the most cost-effective and reliable parts for the specific application of the equipment.
In conclusion, determining spare parts for rotating equipment requires consideration of a number of factors. Cost must be balanced with both reliability and availability. Risk based analysis allows operators to make informed decisions regarding the need to hold spare parts, while manufacturer recommended parts lists can provide confidence in both cost and quality of spares. Following these principles will ensure the right spare parts are selected when needed.
