Financial Benefits of Automating Maintenance Documentation, 1997 Process Control, Electrical & Info. Conference Proceedings

This paper presents a synopsis of the current regulatory and operating standards requirements that are drastically changing and increasing the maintenance workload in Pulp & Paper facilities today. The fulfillment of these requirements, together with the necessary documented auditable trail has generated an appreciable increase in maintenance workloads throughout the paper industry. This increased workload, in conjunction with the need to maintain a competitive edge through budget and resource controls, can place the maintenance department in a “no-win” situation. Is there a reasonable solution?

Yes, by equipping maintenance personnel with the tools provided to the industry utilizing what is available through microprocessors and computers today. By “modernizing” the equipment in maintenance shops, the technicians are enabled to become much more efficient. At the same time, managers are provided the analysis tools that enable them to direct their limited resources toward the plant equipment and assets which have the greatest affect on profitable plant operation.

This paper focuses on possible areas of “Return on Investment” and cost justification based on the author’s experience with a number of installations. It is recognized that the user’s investment in current technology goes well beyond the initial cost of the solution. The investment includes training, changing work order procedures and written procedures, plus a number of other hard-to-identify costs. This paper attempts to enumerate some possible areas where savings are appreciable and costs can be justified.