Computer maintenance management systems (cmms) for hydroelectric power systems

Effective plant management requires that all valuable information regarding a production process or item of equipment be readily available to permit the owner to make a proper assessment of its condition. Historically, such information has been distributed among a wide number of different departments at different locations making it difficult and expensive to perform an accurate assessment. For this reason, maintenance has not been performed on the basis of actual machine condition but, rather, at regular intervals using the manufacturer’s recommendations. The difficulty in being able to quickly access information, generate work orders, and track prices and progress has led to inefficient and costly maintenance practices which can be improved to reduce costs.. Recent developments in computer software technology make it possible to economically integrate relevant plant operations, equipment, planning, and systems information. This feature permits easy access by all appropriate personnel within the corporation. When these new technologies are blended with new management processes relating to maintenance, outages, asset condition assessment, project justification and prioritization, unit dispatch, and reservoir management, the results are improved efficiency and reduced costs with high reliability. This panel session brings together suppliers, consultants and users to present the state-ofthe-technology in Computer Maintenance Management Systems and to relate their experiences in selection, development and implementation of such systems in the electric power industry and, specifically, in hydroelectric power generating plants. The subjects to be presented are summarized in the papers listed.