Software requirements for reliability-centered maintenance application

This paper describes some software needs for Reliability-Centered Maintenance (RCM) application to asset management. Based on the RCM structured approach, a set of information artifacts and probabilistic data are derived as necessary for the correct application of the methodology. The method and experimental software have been used by a Cigre task-force in Brazil, as a supporting tool to develop a guide and database for application of RCM to power transformers. A concurrent research project supported by ANEEL (The Brazilian Electric Energy Regulating Agency) and CHESF (The San Francisco Hidro Electric Company) is also developing a standard format for exchange of information about RCM among power companies, equipment suppliers and independent system operators. Probabilistic optimization of maintenance frequency is a central requisite of these projects, as this aspect is loosely treated by RCM norms from IEC/ISO and SAE. A stochastic model is suggested and included as a software requirement.