RCM2 is a process used to decide what must be done to ensure that any physical asset, system or process continues to do whatever its users want it to do.

What users expect from their assets is defined in terms of primary performance parameters such as output, throughput, speed, range and carrying capacity. Where relevant, the RCM 2 process also defines what users want in terms of risk (safety and environmental integrity), quality (precision, accuracy, consistency and stability), control, comfort, containment, economy, customer service, etc.

The next step in the RCM 2 process is to identify ways in which the system can fail to live up to these expectations (failed states), followed by an FMEA (failure modes and effects analysis) to identify all the events which are reasonably likely to cause each failed state.

Finally, the RCM 2 process seeks to identify a suitable failure management policy for dealing with each failure mode in the light of its consequences and technical characteristics. Failure management policy options include: predictive maintenance, preventive maintenance, failure-finding, change the design or configuration of the system, change the way the system is operated or run-to-failure.

The RCM 2 process provides powerful rules for deciding whether any failure management policy is technically appropriate. It also provides precise criteria for deciding how often routine tasks should be performed.

Heavy emphasis on the expectations of the user is one of the many features of RCM 2 that distinguish it from other less rigorous interpretations of the RCM philosophy. Another is the use of cross-functional RCM 2 review groups of users and maintainers to apply the process. With careful training, such groups are able to use RCM 2 to produce extraordinarily robust and cost-effective asset management programs, even in situations where they have access to little or no historical data.

RCM 2 complies fully with SAE Standard JA1011 "Evaluation Criteria for Reliability-Centered Maintenance RCM Processes.”

To learn more about RCM 2 and how it works in practice, senior management and other interested professionals may register to attend an upcoming STI Introductory RCM 2 course.