Challenges and solutions in condition-based maintenance implementation - A multiple case study

Abstract

Previous literature has highlighted many opportunities for digital technologies, such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and data analytics, to enable circular strategies, i.e., strategies which support the transition to a circular economy (CE). As one of the key circular strategies for which the digital opportunities are apparent, maintenance is selected as the focus area for this study. In the field of maintenance, IoT and data analytics enable companies to implement condition-based maintenance (CBM), i.e., maintenance based on monitoring the actual condition of products in the field. CBM can lead to more timely and efficient maintenance, better performing products-in-use, reduced downtime in operations, and longer product lifetimes. Despite these benefits, CBM implementation in practice is still limited. The aim of this research is thus to understand the challenges related to CBM implementation in practice, and to extract solutions which companies have applied to address these challenges. Towards this aim, a multiple case study is conducted at three original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). A framework is derived which allows for a broad analysis of challenges and solutions in the cases. We identify 19 challenges and 16 solutions and translate these into a set of actionable recommendations. Our findings contribute to the field of CBM with a comprehensive view of challenges and solutions in practice, from the OEM's point of view. Moreover, we contribute to CE literature with a concrete case study about IoT-enabled circular strategy implementation.