Propuesta de un plan de mantenimiento preventivo para los equipos de los laboratorios de multieje ensayos mecánicos y soldadura de la Facultad de Ingeniería Mecánica de la Universidad Santo Tomás sede principal

Abstract

This paper develops a proposal for a preventive maintenance plan for equipment belonging to the Multiaxis Mechanical Testing and Welding laboratories of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering at the main campus of Santo Tomás University. The research arose due to the absence of a structured maintenance plan, which has led to recurring failures, downtime, suspension of academic practices, and delays in research projects. Through a comprehensive diagnosis that included visual inspections, document review, interviews with laboratory technicians, and analysis of the operational status, sixteen pieces of equipment were identified and evaluated according to their criticality, frequency of use, and current conditions.

Tools such as the Pugh matrix and technical criteria related to safety, impact on academic production, process quality, and maintenance requirements were applied to classify criticality. The results showed that in the Multi-axis Mechanical Testing Laboratory, four pieces of equipment are highly critical, two are moderately critical, and three are low criticality; while in the Welding Laboratory, four pieces of equipment are highly critical and the remaining five are moderately critical.

Subsequently, Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) was applied to equipment classified as high and medium criticality, which made it possible to identify failure modes, their potential effects, probable causes, existing controls, and the Priority Risk Number (PRN). The results showed that CNC equipment is the most technically complex, while welding equipment is prone to failures associated with wear and tear on cables, clamps, and components subjected to high temperatures.

Based on the diagnoses, a preventive maintenance plan was designed that integrates the improvement of the institutional resume format, the preparation of a detailed list of spare parts and consumables, and the definition of maintenance routines structured according to frequency (daily, weekly, monthly, semi-annual, and annual). These routines were based on manufacturer manuals, documentation of similar equipment, and the experience of laboratory personnel. In addition, the direct, indirect, and recurring costs associated with the implementation of the plan were estimated in order to support the management of institutional resources.

The proposed plan seeks to optimize equipment availability, safety, and reliability; reduce costs associated with corrective maintenance; and strengthen the culture of maintenance within the Faculty. Its implementation will improve the continuity of academic practices, ensure adequate operating conditions in laboratories, and contribute to strengthening teaching and learning processes in mechanical engineering.