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Understanding Asset and Component

Understanding Asset and Component Failures in Maintenance — And How to Prevent Them

It is rarely random when an asset fails. Failures are indicators of system weaknesses, wear and tear, or neglected maintenance. Reactive teams differ from high-efficiency operations in their ability to decipher those signals. 

The global predictive maintenance market has been experiencing significant growth and is projected to continue expanding in the coming years.

According to a report by IMARC Group, the market size reached USD 12.7 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow to USD 80.6 billion by 2033, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 22.8% from 2025 to 2033.

Another analysis by Precedence Research estimates the market size at USD 7.24 billion in 2024, with projections to surpass USD 79.70 billion by 2034, expanding at a CAGR of 27.10% between 2024 and 2034.

Let’s examine how failure occurs, how to interpret it, and how contemporary technologies can transform these setbacks into more intelligent tactics.

What Constitutes a Failure of an Asset or Component?

To put it simply, a failure occurs when something ceases to function as intended. This could be a motor that vibrates excessively, a cooling system that can’t keep cold, or a machine that won’t start. There are three primary categories of failures:

Types of Failures

Inability to Function

Although not as intended, the asset is still functional. Consider a rotating fan, but doesn’t cool.

Hidden Failure

No visible signs until it’s too late. Example: A backup generator that’s dead during an outage.

Potential Failure

Small signs (vibration, heat, noise) that predict a bigger failure. The earlier you catch these, the better.

Failure Codes’ Function

Every setback creates a trail. Failure codes, which are concise, structured descriptions kept in your CMMS or EAM system, are used to record that trail. 

Note : Computerized Maintenance Management System Market to Hit USD 3.72 Billion by 2032, at a CAGR of 10.81%

These codes:

  • Assist you in determining the precise cause
  • Show trends among devices, groups, or locations
  • Set off more precise and useful work orders

The Reasons They Are Important

Identify persistent issues (poor calibration, overheating, and user error).

Establish a feedback loop between repair and diagnosis.

Enter data into forecasting tools to prepare for the future.

Typical Types of Failure Codes

A good CMMS failure log should look like this:

  • Errors made by users
  • Warnings about overheating
  • Pollution or rust
  • Errors in calibration
  • Electrical and startup issues
  • Firmware or software problems
  • Mechanical malfunctions or obstructions

FMEA and RCA: Transforming Data into Action

There are two main ways to handle this data:

  1. Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA)
  •  Assigns a severity, frequency, and detectability ranking to failures.
  •  Decides what needs to be fixed first.

 

  1. Root Cause Analysis (RCA)

 

Digs into the “why” behind recurring problems

Avoids recurrent breakdowns

Spreadsheets don’t need to be manually sorted when you use tools like Ezist to create automated workflows around these models.

The Best Methods for Handling Failure Codes

Use these pointers to maintain a strict failure log:

  • Employ standardized, unambiguous naming conventions.
  • Avoid overcomplication and maintain concise, logical codes.
  • Always link the final repair to the failure code.
  • Every month, audit your codes to find any errors or misuse.

PRO TIP: Maximize Efficiency with Ezist – Your Free Asset & Maintenance Management App

Empower your maintenance team with Ezist’s intuitive interface and powerful asset tracking features. With real-time monitoring, detailed maintenance history, and actionable insights, your organization can detect issues early and take timely corrective action. Ezist’s predictive analytics help prevent failures before they happen—boosting operational uptime, improving decision-making, and keeping your equipment running at peak performance.

Start smart, stay ahead—manage better with Ezist!

Free to use | Real-time tracking |  Predictive maintenance

Results from the Real World: The Significance of Structured Failure Code Strategies for Organizations Report:

  •   27% less downtime
  •  Repairs are 30% quicker.
  •  Two fold increase in the productivity of the maintenance team

Take the Next Step

If your current system isn’t giving you this kind of insight, it’s time for an upgrade.

With Ezist, you get real-time monitoring, intuitive failure code tagging, and auto-generated work orders—all in one place.

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FAQs Regarding Maintenance Errors

  1. What is the most frequent reason why assets fail?

inadequate or postponed upkeep. One major factor is the absence of early detection.

  1. How frequently should failure codes be examined?

High-volume teams should audit weekly, but ideally once a month.

  1. Is it possible for AI to anticipate failures?

Indeed. Machine learning is used by predictive maintenance tools to identify problems early.

  1. How can I determine whether I have unspoken shortcomings?

Make use of sensors and conduct routine checks. Always test backup systems as well.

  1. Do all industries use the same failure codes?

Of course. Structured failure tracking is crucial in all industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and energy.

Take charge of your assets before they fail by using Ezist right now.