Dynamic modeling of maintenance strategies

Maintenance strategy formulation is difficult because different systems, such as production control and maintenance, are integrated and highly interdependent. Dividing the problem into smaller sub-problems helps only in short term. The longer the time span over which the system is examined, the more significant the interactions become. Considering the whole system, problems of maintenance strategy formulation are complex. This paper presents a system dynamics simulation model for the maintenance of a generic process plant. The model describes the maintenance activity and its interactions with other parts of the organization. With the help of the simulations and the causal diagram of system’s feedback structure it is possible to clarify the role of the maintenance in the organization. When the role is clear, it is easier to set goals and to plan maintenance strategy so that they serve best the needs of the corporate. The strategies were evaluated with different performance measures. Additionally, strategies’ sensitivity to different uncertain variables and assumptions were tested.