Journal of Applied Sciences1812-56541812-5662Asian Network for Scientific Information10.3923/jas.2011.1580.1586FIMMMBrian J. Cane CEng92011119There are a variety of factors that can influence the performance of plant assets. These include the design and the operating mode, but one of the most influential factors is the effectiveness of maintenance programmes. Best practice operators generally spend less on maintenance but still avail of good operational performance. The first step in any improvement program is to benchmark the current status of the plant in terms of its operation and maintenance process effectiveness. Once this has been established, programmes can be developed to address any skills or procedural deficiencies. This is followed by an assessment of plant condition related risks to safety and availability. Two distinct phases are thus involved in an Asset Maintenance Optimisation System (AMOS). The first phase is a performance benchmarking exercise and management processes review involving historical performance relative to industry norms and integrity management programme and programme implementation audits. The second phase involves comprehensive plant-wide implementation of risk-based inspection and maintenance (RBI) planning tools which output risks, safe run lengths and inspection plans at equipment level. The study describes the processes involved in Phase 1 and Phase 2. Examples of implementation are illustrated using TWIs RISKWISE software for process units, utilities plant and pipelines.]]>API RP 580,20021st Edn.,pp: 60pp: 60API RP 581,20082nd Edn.,NERC,19951995API RP 571,2003ANSI/ASME B31.8S,2005pp: 68pp: 68NACE RP0502,2002pp: 57pp: 57