Condition based maintenance

Abstract

This paper presents some of the concepts that support Condition Based Maintenance (CBM) and relates aircraft wiring to these concepts. Aircraft wiring will be considered a subset of avionics systems for this presentation. Avionics technology changed little during the 40s, 50s and 60s. Technology focused almost exclusively on aerodynamics, structures, materials, propulsion and fuel efficiency. Since the 70s almost a complete refocus has occurred. New technical advances in avionics systems design and integration have occurred with each new aircraft model introduced to the market place. In parallel a similar technology explosion has also taken place in the commercial computer industry that assisted in the transition of aviation into the digital world. In parallel with the rapid advances in avionics the airline's cost cutting strategies, push for high reliability avionics systems and their high degree of systems integration has opened a business opportunity for the avionics OEMs to provide maintenance service to their airline customers. This in turn sets the stage for the airline industry to transition from reactive and time based maintenance to proactive or CBM practices. Today senior airline managers stress financial decisions that evaluate the total cost of maintenance and the importance of cost effective maintenance programs. The cost-benefit of individual investments in avionics/wiring test/repair facilities and necessary service parts inventory must be proven. Airline management now stress cost reductions, prudent use of existing capital and an intelligent use of new technology. This is where CBM comes into focus (Ref. 1).