by Heinz Bloch, P.E., Editor | Jan 2, 2021 | Plant Operations, The Bloch Files, Workforce Issues
As promised in my Dec. 19, 2020, article on delegation of responsibilities (see link below), here’s a proven, four-step approach for how to do it. The process consists of task definition, careful selection of the designee, provision of adequate resources, and...
by Heinz Bloch, P.E., Editor | Dec 19, 2020 | Plant Operations, The Bloch Files, Workforce Issues
In our book, ‘Machinery Failure Analysis and Troubleshooting’ (now in its 4th edition), Fred Geitner and I explore competing approaches to such troubleshooting. One of them is the “Mr. Machinery Approach,” whereby sole responsibility for a facility’s...
by Heinz Bloch, P.E., Editor | Dec 13, 2020 | Newsletter Column, The Bloch Files, Workforce Issues
There are plenty of unhappy people in this world, and not because of the pandemic. In fact, this short column is not at all related to the horrific COVID-19 environment in which so many of us are now living. I simply want to provide some perspective on special...
by Heinz Bloch, P.E., Editor | Dec 5, 2020 | Asset Management, RAM Tools & Methods, The Bloch Files
The above title doesn’t really disclose what I wanted to capture here: If your company is still repair-focused in late 2020, it will be no match for competitors whose conversion to being fully reliability-focused began over a decade ago, and is now complete....
by Heinz Bloch, P.E., Editor | Nov 28, 2020 | Asset Management, Plant Operations, The Bloch Files
Vertical pumps are available in numerous different configurations, and excel in such areas as ease of multi-staging, virtually unlimited installation depth below grade, and small footprint, i.e. not taking up much real estate. If you have to make a...
by Heinz Bloch, P.E., Editor | Nov 21, 2020 | Plant Operations, The Bloch Files, Workforce Issues
Perhaps the simplest definition of a tutor is a person, device, or other item that provides well-focused instruction. That type of instruction usually results in avoidance of costly mistakes, repeat failures, delays, anxieties, even loss of one’s job. BOOKS AS TUTORS...
by Heinz Bloch, P.E., Editor | Nov 7, 2020 | Asset Management, Plant Operations, The Bloch Files
Years ago, I learned how to systematically and successfully tackle equipment-failure events. I later conveyed these learnings to others and was fortunate in seeing them apply the principles. A key to successful application is to see/learn how others do...
by Heinz Bloch, P.E., Editor | Nov 1, 2020 | Newsletter Column, Plant Operations, The Bloch Files
If your plant depends on a dedicated group of reliability professionals to first collect and then analyze machinery vibration and other equipment-condition data, you’re not alone. They’re probably assigned to this task because your organization knows that an...
by Heinz Bloch, P.E., Editor | Oct 23, 2020 | Asset Management, Plant Operations, The Bloch Files
Since the mid-1980s, a fair number of compressor users have taken another look at piston rod wear. With sophisticated coatings finding widespread acceptance in aerospace and gas turbine applications, it was only a matter of time before a number of coating types...
by Heinz Bloch, P.E., Editor | Oct 17, 2020 | Asset Management, Plant Operations, The Bloch Files
Equipment purchasers are always interested in meeting the cost and schedule targets for projects. There could, however, be conflicting goals when purchasing drivers and/or auxiliaries from vendors other than the primary fluid-machinery manufacturer. While cost targets...
