Six Sigma and Beyond: Design for Six Sigma, Volume VI

CONVERSION/DECOMMISSION

Conversion is one of the key elements of the investment efficiency loop. The R&M process for reuse of equipment is very similar to the purchase of new equipment except that you have more limitations on the concept of the new process. The data are collected and phase one is repeated, often, with more specific direction as the current equipment may limit some of the other concepts.

While decommission may be the process of equipment disposal, it is necessary to verify and record R&M data from this equipment to help identify the best design practices. It is also important to make note of those design practices that did not work as well as planned.

As plans for decommission become firm, it is important to generate forecasts for equipment availability. These forecasts should then be entered into a database for future forecasted and available machinery and equipment. Maintenance data, including condition, operation description, and reason for availability should be included. This will assist engineers evaluating surplus machinery and equipment for reuse in their programs.