How to Avoid Unplanned Downtime in Process Control and Equipment Rooms
One hour of unplanned downtime can cost six figures in lost revenue. The average plant experiences several hundred hours of downtime per year. That’s potentially millions of dollars, some of which could’ve been avoided with proper monitoring and maintenance.
While the impact of unplanned downtime can be huge, sometimes the reason behind the downtime can be too small for the eye to see. In fact, a single molecule can mean the difference between business as usual and revenue-destroying machine failure.
Let’s take a closer look at downtime’s impact and how to minimize downtime in process control and equipment rooms.
The impact of unplanned downtime beyond revenue
Production interruptions
Unplanned downtime disrupts the production process, which causes a halt or slow down in operations. The result is reduced output, leading to delays in customer orders and production targets. For every minute of unplanned downtime more productivity is lost, more delays pile up, and more deadlines are missed.
Supply chain disturbance
Supply chains need to keep a smooth working order from start to finish to avoid costly setbacks. One break in the chain due to unplanned downtime can mean disruptions throughout the entire supply chain. The impact of downtime on other parts of the supply chain—including customers—can tarnish relationships and reputation, which may have a negative ripple effect long after the initial unplanned downtime occurred.
Competitive disadvantage and lost opportunities
Should unplanned downtime become frequent or extend for long periods, processing plants may develop a competitive disadvantage in relation to other more efficient plants. In addition, downtime forces attention on solving the machine problems, which takes attention away from potential opportunities that may allow the plant to rise amongst its competitors.
How to minimize unplanned downtime
Monitor corrosive activity
Corrosion coupons allow managers of process control and equipment rooms the ability to monitor levels of corrosive elements in their facilities. Without these small but important tools, the corrosive environments could remain invisible until an electrical malfunction occurs. At that point, it’s too late to mitigate corrosive activity. Downtime will occur until potentially large repairs or replacements are made, resulting in major revenue losses.
Learn more about corrosion coupons and their positive impact on process control and equipment rooms.
Engage in regular maintenance
With the help of corrosion coupons, managers can stay informed when there is a potential problem and can take proactive steps to solve any problems that may arise. By implementing the right type of environmental maintenance equipment and/or media, managers can ensure that their facility stays corrosion-free and working properly.
Learn more about Purafil’s patented media solutions.
Connect with your corrosion experts
Purafil can help keep process control and equipment rooms safe, healthy, and productive. Our filtration media, equipment, and monitoring solutions give managers the support they need to keep their facilities from costly downtime.
Contact Purafil today to learn more.