Predictive maintenance is a growing field with options for connectivity and data collection that can thrust any manufacturer into the future of factory technology. Like preventive maintenance, predictive maintenance is a proactive approach.

The key differences between preventive vs. predictive maintenance are:

• Preventive maintenance occurs on the same schedule every cycle — whether or not the upkeep is actually needed. Preventive maintenance is designed to keep parts in good repair but does not take the state of a component or process into account.
• Predictive maintenance occurs as needed, drawing on real-time collection and analysis of machine operation data to identify issues at the nascent stage before they can interrupt production. With predictive maintenance, repairs happen during machine operation and address an actual problem. If a shutdown is required, it will be shorter and more targeted.

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