The IMS RCM Hierarchy shows all the objects in the IMS tool and how they are related. It includes Units, Functional Locations (FLOCs), Equipment, Systems, Prioritizations, Failure Modes, RCM Analyses, RSLs, Schedules, and Equipment Condition Histories (ECHs).
The IMS RCM Hierarchy is set up to support the implementation of RCM Analyses. Once the top-level hierarchy (site, plants, and units) is defined, it typically remains unchanged unless the installation undergoes a major modification, such as adding a new unit or decommissioning and removing an existing one.
The figure below show the important objects in the Hierarchy.
The highest hierarchy levels in IMS are Site, Plant and Unit. Below the Unit level, you can find Functional Locations (FLOCs), which can have multiple levels and a “nested” structure. FLOCs are commonly used in CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management Software) like SAP. One or more pieces of Equipment can be defined under a FLOC.
The Production Loss Equation (PLE) is defined at the Unit level. The PLE is assigned to Functional Failures at the System level and then used in the RCM Analysis to estimate the downtime cost.
RCM Systems are created under the Unit and are used to group FLOCs and Equipment. Here, we can prioritize the FLOC / Equipment and perform Failure Mode and Effect Analyses (FMEAs). When this is done, the RCM Analysis can be started.
The RCM Analysis can be executed in 5 guided steps. Alternatively, users can copy a predefined, more generalized RCM Analysis called a Reliability Strategy Library (RSL), also referred to as Maintenance Library. Using RSLs helps make sure Equipment is scheduled for periodic Preventive maintenance actions. In addition, Corrective Schedules can be used to plan repairs.
In IMS RCM, Schedules can be created on either FLOC or Equipment level. Multiple Schedules can be credited in an Equipment Condition History (ECH). The maintenance actions can be tracked and results recorded via a Dynamic Form Checklist. Planned Events represent predetermined activities, such as turnarounds. Schedules and associated Equipment Condition Histories (ECHs) can be grouped together for Planned Events.
The Manage Equipment Care (MEC) board enables a graphic overview of the preventive tasks and allows for further alignment.
When enabled, the Change and Deferral module enables the creation, approval, and implementation of Change and Deferral requests. Steps in the Change and Deferral workflow are linked to predefined users with authorization levels and are supported by informative e-mail messages.