What is condition-based maintenance (CBM)?

• A. Maintenance triggered by data indicating equipment health rather than on a fixed calendar.
• B. Maintenance done on a fixed calendar schedule.
• C. An emergency braking procedure.
• D. A standard emergency procedure.

Answer: (A)

Condition-based maintenance uses data from sensors and diagnostics to decide when maintenance is needed, rather than performing tasks on a fixed calendar. In practice, health indicators like vibration, temperature, lubrication quality, and wear debris are continuously monitored, and maintenance is triggered when these indicators show degradation or crossing predefined thresholds. This approach catches issues before they lead to failure, reduces unnecessary work when the equipment is still healthy, and can lower downtime and maintenance costs. It differs from maintenance on a fixed calendar, which happens regardless of actual condition. It’s also not about emergency procedures, which are safety actions rather than maintenance strategies.