Which statement best describes predictive maintenance PdM?

Which statement best describes predictive maintenance PdM?

• A. PdM relies on calendar schedules only.
• B. PdM uses condition data to decide when maintenance is needed.
• C. PdM never uses data.
• D. PdM is the same as PM.

Answer: (B)

Predictive maintenance relies on data from the actual condition of equipment to decide when maintenance should occur. By collecting signals from sensors and tests—like vibration, temperature, oil analysis, and wear measurements—and analyzing how these indicators change over time, it forecasts when a component is likely to fail and schedules service just before that point. This data-driven approach is what makes maintenance timing proactive rather than fixed. It contrasts with calendar-based schedules that perform work at set intervals regardless of condition, and it isn’t about avoiding data altogether or about being the same as traditional preventive maintenance, which is often time- or usage-based. In essence, maintenance is triggered by evidence of degradation, not by a calendar.

Predictive maintenance relies on data from the actual condition of equipment to decide when maintenance should occur. By collecting signals from sensors and tests—like vibration, temperature, oil analysis, and wear measurements—and analyzing how these indicators change over time, it forecasts when a component is likely to fail and schedules service just before that point. This data-driven approach is what makes maintenance timing proactive rather than fixed. It contrasts with calendar-based schedules that perform work at set intervals regardless of condition, and it isn’t about avoiding data altogether or about being the same as traditional preventive maintenance, which is often time- or usage-based. In essence, maintenance is triggered by evidence of degradation, not by a calendar.