A mechanical system condition-based maintenance demonstration model [naval shipboard machinery]

The increasing sophistication of naval shipboard machinery coupled with increasing competition for skilled manpower and tightening of defense budgets is forcing the Navy to consider alternative maintenance concepts. One such concept, condition-based maintenance (CBM), is described along with the reasons for its consideration. The concept of such a system integrated into the naval ship environment is described. A program at the David Taylor Research Center (DTRC) is described with particular emphasis on a machinery diagnostic demonstration platform Worthington high-pressure air compressor installed in the laboratory provides a means of effectively demonstrating CBM on an actual shipboard auxiliary. Some near-term plans for the DTRC program are described, and areas for technology development are outlined