Maintenance testing is a test that is performed to either identify equipment problems, diagnose equipment problems or to confirm that repair measures have been effective. It can be performed at either the system level, the equipment level, or the component level.
Technical basis for testing
Maintenance testing uses system performance requirements as the basis for identifying the appropriate components for further inspection or repair. A good testing program will maintain a record of test results and maintenance actions taken. These data will be evaluated for trends and serve as the basis for decisions on appropriate testing frequency, need to replace or upgrade equipment and performance improvement opportunities.
In-service inspection and testing
One level of maintenance testing is the in-service inspection or inspection, which typically is a test or series of tests performed on a frequency established by the manufacturer based on prior experience with the system/equipment/component or upon engineering analysis of the probable failure rate for the equipment. Typical examples of inspections and tests include:
Periodic inspections of nuclear power plant equipment important to the safe operation of the facility. Such inspections include a range of tests such as
*Leak-rate tests for containment structures.
*Calibration tests to assure shutdown systems will activate on over-power or over-temperature conditions.
Performance tests such as turbine shaft vibration tests to identify wear and plan maintenance are a form of diagnostic testing.
Evaluation and trending of test results
A good testing program will maintain a record of test results and maintenance actions taken. These data will be evaluated for trends and serve as the basis for decisions on appropriate testing frequency, need to replace or upgrade equipment and performance improvement opportunities.
Types of maintenance for which testing can be used
Maintenance falls into the following four categories:
Preventive maintenance— Changes to the existing system so as to reduce the risk of failure while operating.
