
5 Types of Predictive Maintenance Techniques Every Facility Manager Should Know Predictive maintenance (PdM) is transforming how facilities manage equipment and infrastructure. Instead of reacting to failures or relying solely on scheduled maintenance, PdM uses data and technology to anticipate issues before they happen—saving time, money, and headaches. Here are five key predictive maintenance techniques that facility managers can leverage to improve asset reliability and performance: 1. Vibration Analysis What it is:Monitoring the vibration patterns of rotating equipment (like motors, pumps, and compressors) to detect imbalances, misalignments, or bearing wear. Why it matters:Changes in vibration can signal early signs of mechanical failure. Catching these issues early prevents costly breakdowns and extends equipment life. 2. Infrared Thermography What it is:Using thermal imaging cameras to detect heat anomalies in electrical systems, HVAC units, and mechanical components. Why it matters:Overheating components often indicate electrical faults, friction, or insulation problems. Thermography helps identify risks before they escalate into failures or safety hazards. 3. Oil Analysis What it is:Testing lubricants for contaminants, viscosity, and wear particles in engines, gearboxes, and hydraulic systems. Why it matters:Oil condition reflects the health of internal components. Regular analysis can reveal early signs of wear, contamination, or degradation—allowing for timely intervention. Unlock the Power of Predictive Maintenance Reduce downtime, extend equipment life, and cut maintenance costs with data-driven insights. Join the future of smart operations—where your assets tell you what they need before they fail. Get Started Contact us today about a free Tenan account! 4. Ultrasonic Testing What it is:Using high-frequency sound waves to detect leaks, electrical discharge, or mechanical anomalies in pressurized systems and electrical equipment. Why it matters:Ultrasound can identify issues that are invisible to the naked eye, such as steam trap failures, compressed air leaks, or electrical arcing. 5. Condition Monitoring with IoT Sensors What it is:Deploying smart sensors to continuously monitor temperature, pressure, humidity, and other parameters in real time. Why it matters:IoT-enabled condition monitoring provides instant alerts and long-term trend analysis, enabling predictive insights and automated maintenance planning. Final Thoughts Predictive maintenance isn’t just about technology—it’s about strategy. By adopting these techniques, facility managers can reduce unplanned downtime, optimize maintenance schedules, and extend asset lifecycles.