Every segment of the beverage industry is a capital intensive operation. The facility, machinery, equipment and processes required to build a carbonated soft drink (CSD) plant, brewery, winery or distillery creates assets from which a return would be expected. With such important investments, the created assets must be protected to ensure maximized utilization and efficiency, as well as minimized downtime and damage.
To accomplish these goals, the assets must be adequately and properly maintained. However, the word maintenance can have different meanings depending on the operating conditions and a variety of management philosophies. Therefore, it is best to clarify this word before discussing or establishing guidelines for an effective maintenance program.