Rail vehicle maintenance frequently limits availability. Operational problems mean that maintenance managers are forced to react to events, and defer repairs, risking vehicle failures. A fundamental review, based on the specific duty cycle, the maintenance opportunities and facilities, leads to a service driven maintenance plan. Analysis of the vehicle systems uses Reliability Centred Maintenance (RCM) logic, and risk analysis. Taking account of the local circumstances, a maintenance plan is developed tailored to the individual operator. Planning of each examination takes account of vehicle safety isolations, depot berthing facilities, and staff skills. This holistic approach fulfils the apparently conflicting goals of more trains in traffic, reduced maintenance, and more reliable trains in better overall condition.
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