Assessing the implementation Business Process Management maturity models in South African organisations
- Authors: Nkosi, Mathandi Elizabeth
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Industrial management - South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/424749 , uj:36337
- Description: Abstract: This research aims to assess the implementation of Business Process Management (BPM) maturity models in South African organisations. This research was conducted in South African organisations, across different industries and organisational sizes, by collating survey responses from 189 individuals who responded to the questionnaire via email or face to face interviews. The researcher believes that this study has provided the most extensive representative view on the following questions: Do organisation implement BPM maturity models as part of their BPM journey? What are the process management elements affecting BPM maturity models? Which BPM maturity models are implemented? What are the financial and non-financial benefits derived from the adoption and implementation of BPM maturity models? The limitations of the study include the element that the study was conducted in organisation that are operating in Gauteng to provide a representation of South African organisations and the study is an exploratory in nature and has sourced qualitative data from the respondents . The research results show that South African organisations are implementing BPM maturity models in their BPM implementation efforts. Different BPM maturity models have been adopted, and majority of the organisations have recorded benefits (financial and Non-financial) from the implementation of these models. The researcher recommends that further studies be conducted on the following: The influence of organisational factors and process management factors on the implementation of BPM maturity A detailed RIO investigation on implementation of BPM maturity model. , M.Phil. (Engineering Management)
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- Authors: Nkosi, Mathandi Elizabeth
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Industrial management - South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/424749 , uj:36337
- Description: Abstract: This research aims to assess the implementation of Business Process Management (BPM) maturity models in South African organisations. This research was conducted in South African organisations, across different industries and organisational sizes, by collating survey responses from 189 individuals who responded to the questionnaire via email or face to face interviews. The researcher believes that this study has provided the most extensive representative view on the following questions: Do organisation implement BPM maturity models as part of their BPM journey? What are the process management elements affecting BPM maturity models? Which BPM maturity models are implemented? What are the financial and non-financial benefits derived from the adoption and implementation of BPM maturity models? The limitations of the study include the element that the study was conducted in organisation that are operating in Gauteng to provide a representation of South African organisations and the study is an exploratory in nature and has sourced qualitative data from the respondents . The research results show that South African organisations are implementing BPM maturity models in their BPM implementation efforts. Different BPM maturity models have been adopted, and majority of the organisations have recorded benefits (financial and Non-financial) from the implementation of these models. The researcher recommends that further studies be conducted on the following: The influence of organisational factors and process management factors on the implementation of BPM maturity A detailed RIO investigation on implementation of BPM maturity model. , M.Phil. (Engineering Management)
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Critical success factors for improving quality culture in a coal testing division
- Authors: Rasethe, Mohlatlego Jonas
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/399586 , uj:33310
- Description: Abstract : The present study relates to a method of identifying critical success factors for improving quality culture in a coal testing division. Coal testing division plays a major integral role in the selling and buying process of coal commodity globally. Although this is not an experimental study conducted in a testing laboratory through preparation and analysis of coal samples, the researcher has however provided a brief discussion on coal processing, usage, testing methods and significance of coal testing for end users of coal in chapter two of this dissertation. With the current competitive advantage, coal testing division has recently been faced with various challenges including the closing down of some of its business units. This has had a negative impact on the overall commercial business. The main objectives of this study are to demonstrate the benefits for maintaining ISO 17025 quality management system and identification of critical success factors for improving ISO 17025 quality management system in a coal testing division. These study objectives will be achieved through answering the following study questions: I. Why does coal testing division has to maintain ISO 17025 quality management system? II. How to improve ISO 17025 quality management system in a coal testing division? The study adopted a mixed method research by triangulation of quantitative and qualitative data to source out data in order to answer the study questions and objectives. The research strategy used was a single case study by means of research questionnaire sent to coal testing division employees. Chapter three of this dissertation provides literature review on the current published information regarding the benefits for implementation of quality culture in testing environment subsequently applicable to coal testing division. The literature review chapter concludes by providing an extracted case study of company X commercial unit quality management system policy document. The extracted case study outline the requirements and level of quality implementation in coal testing division. From the literature review, the benefits for maintaining ISO 17025 quality management system revealed include improved customer satisfaction, greater market share (Competitive advantage), operational credibility with government and customers, international recognition and stronger risk management. Based on feedback from the questionnaires, critical success factors were identified for improving quality culture within coal testing division. Through triangulation system comparison of the literature review, company X commercial unit case study and the study questionnaire feedback, it was found that quality policy and objectives together with customer requirements are not well communicated and understood by all coal testing division personnel. There are also no designated personnel stationed in the business units to ensure effective maintenance of ISO 17025-quality management system. Majority of the staff members expressed that they are not always provided with the necessary resources assisting them with continual improvement of ISO 17025-quality management system. An ineffective customer communication system was identified which must provide customer service information, handling of enquiries, orders and customer feedback. There is an ineffective measuring and monitoring system for service conformity to ensure compliance on all customer requirements. There is ineffective system to identify and control non-conformities to prevent their unintended use in coal testing division. , M.Phil. (Engineering Management)
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- Authors: Rasethe, Mohlatlego Jonas
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/399586 , uj:33310
- Description: Abstract : The present study relates to a method of identifying critical success factors for improving quality culture in a coal testing division. Coal testing division plays a major integral role in the selling and buying process of coal commodity globally. Although this is not an experimental study conducted in a testing laboratory through preparation and analysis of coal samples, the researcher has however provided a brief discussion on coal processing, usage, testing methods and significance of coal testing for end users of coal in chapter two of this dissertation. With the current competitive advantage, coal testing division has recently been faced with various challenges including the closing down of some of its business units. This has had a negative impact on the overall commercial business. The main objectives of this study are to demonstrate the benefits for maintaining ISO 17025 quality management system and identification of critical success factors for improving ISO 17025 quality management system in a coal testing division. These study objectives will be achieved through answering the following study questions: I. Why does coal testing division has to maintain ISO 17025 quality management system? II. How to improve ISO 17025 quality management system in a coal testing division? The study adopted a mixed method research by triangulation of quantitative and qualitative data to source out data in order to answer the study questions and objectives. The research strategy used was a single case study by means of research questionnaire sent to coal testing division employees. Chapter three of this dissertation provides literature review on the current published information regarding the benefits for implementation of quality culture in testing environment subsequently applicable to coal testing division. The literature review chapter concludes by providing an extracted case study of company X commercial unit quality management system policy document. The extracted case study outline the requirements and level of quality implementation in coal testing division. From the literature review, the benefits for maintaining ISO 17025 quality management system revealed include improved customer satisfaction, greater market share (Competitive advantage), operational credibility with government and customers, international recognition and stronger risk management. Based on feedback from the questionnaires, critical success factors were identified for improving quality culture within coal testing division. Through triangulation system comparison of the literature review, company X commercial unit case study and the study questionnaire feedback, it was found that quality policy and objectives together with customer requirements are not well communicated and understood by all coal testing division personnel. There are also no designated personnel stationed in the business units to ensure effective maintenance of ISO 17025-quality management system. Majority of the staff members expressed that they are not always provided with the necessary resources assisting them with continual improvement of ISO 17025-quality management system. An ineffective customer communication system was identified which must provide customer service information, handling of enquiries, orders and customer feedback. There is an ineffective measuring and monitoring system for service conformity to ensure compliance on all customer requirements. There is ineffective system to identify and control non-conformities to prevent their unintended use in coal testing division. , M.Phil. (Engineering Management)
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Analysis of factors undermining the reliability of railway track in South Africa
- Authors: Mukwena, Mulalo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Railroads - Maintenance and repair , Railroad tracks , Railroads - South Africa - Reliability , Reliability (Engineering)
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/284872 , uj:30782
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: Various factors have been highlighted as causes of reliability deficiency for railway track, globally. It is rather opaque as to which of these factors are prevalent in the South African railway industry. The study develops a framework for identifying and classifying causes of reliability deficiency for Railway Track (also referred to as Permanent way Infrastructure). The researcher employed the exploratory sequential mixed methods; a qualitative research in a form of structured interviews was conducted and the subsequent results were used to build a quantitative research survey through which, the researcher solicited responses from 52 respondents. Target respondents were mainly engineers, project managers, and Technicians experienced in the management of Railway infrastructure. Findings reveal that Poor maintenance policies, strategies and implementations is the most pervasive factor causing reliability deficiency of railway Track in South Africa whilst, Insufficient funding and Aging rail network became the second and third prevalent factors, respectively. The research also concluded, among other things, that; Track components used in South Africa are as good as those used by other major railway organizations globally. The study recommended that; railway organizations in the country should priorities the replacement of old infrastructure, adequate funding should be made available for construction of new railway lines, maintenance and rehabilitation projects, and as part of continuous improvements, railway organizations should realign and modernize their maintenance strategies and implementations.
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- Authors: Mukwena, Mulalo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Railroads - Maintenance and repair , Railroad tracks , Railroads - South Africa - Reliability , Reliability (Engineering)
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/284872 , uj:30782
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: Various factors have been highlighted as causes of reliability deficiency for railway track, globally. It is rather opaque as to which of these factors are prevalent in the South African railway industry. The study develops a framework for identifying and classifying causes of reliability deficiency for Railway Track (also referred to as Permanent way Infrastructure). The researcher employed the exploratory sequential mixed methods; a qualitative research in a form of structured interviews was conducted and the subsequent results were used to build a quantitative research survey through which, the researcher solicited responses from 52 respondents. Target respondents were mainly engineers, project managers, and Technicians experienced in the management of Railway infrastructure. Findings reveal that Poor maintenance policies, strategies and implementations is the most pervasive factor causing reliability deficiency of railway Track in South Africa whilst, Insufficient funding and Aging rail network became the second and third prevalent factors, respectively. The research also concluded, among other things, that; Track components used in South Africa are as good as those used by other major railway organizations globally. The study recommended that; railway organizations in the country should priorities the replacement of old infrastructure, adequate funding should be made available for construction of new railway lines, maintenance and rehabilitation projects, and as part of continuous improvements, railway organizations should realign and modernize their maintenance strategies and implementations.
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Factors affecting the delivery of military vehicles during depot level maintenance and repair
- Authors: Sithole, Peter Vusi
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Vehicles, Military - South Africa - Maintenance and repair - Management , Automobile repair shops - South Africa - Evaluation
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/293834 , uj:31958
- Description: Abstract: The purpose of this study is to investigate factors affecting the delivery of military vehicles during depot level maintenance and repair by contractors. The military vehicles were manufactured 35 years ago when South Africa was still engaged in war. However, since the country is no longer at war, the government has decided that no more new military vehicles (Samil) will be manufactured. The current fleet therefore needs to be maintained and repaired more effectively and cost-efficiently so that it can be available for deployment at anytime, anywhere in the country. Armscor have dealer networks (contractors) in the nine provinces of South Africa to conduct depot level maintenance and repair of the military vehicles. About 91 military vehicles are sent to contractors each year for depot level maintenance and repair; the time allocated to complete each vehicle is 30 days. The research question focuses on the employees who are directly involved in the depot level maintenance and repair of military vehicles: the contractors (project managers and skilled personnel), the Armscor project managers, the Armscor quality specialists and the SA army product systems managers. The research shows that four factors affect the delivery of military vehicles during depot level maintenance and repair by the contractors. These are: · Ordering and receiving spares and components from the original equipment manufacturer (contractors project managers are not ordering spares and components on time from the original equipment manufacturer as per the bill of material which affects the delivery of the military vehicles from the depot); · Quality control inspection and acceptance (when Armscor quality specialists arrive for inspection, the vehicles are not ready for inspection); · Reporting and communication (Armscor process flow & project plan to conduct depot level maintenance and repair is not effective and Armscor project plans are not executed at depot level); and · Productivity of personnel (both male and female personnel are not motivated to be productive in executing depot level maintenance and repair of the military vehicles which affects the timeous delivery of the military vehicles). , M.Phil. (Engineering Management)
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- Authors: Sithole, Peter Vusi
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Vehicles, Military - South Africa - Maintenance and repair - Management , Automobile repair shops - South Africa - Evaluation
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/293834 , uj:31958
- Description: Abstract: The purpose of this study is to investigate factors affecting the delivery of military vehicles during depot level maintenance and repair by contractors. The military vehicles were manufactured 35 years ago when South Africa was still engaged in war. However, since the country is no longer at war, the government has decided that no more new military vehicles (Samil) will be manufactured. The current fleet therefore needs to be maintained and repaired more effectively and cost-efficiently so that it can be available for deployment at anytime, anywhere in the country. Armscor have dealer networks (contractors) in the nine provinces of South Africa to conduct depot level maintenance and repair of the military vehicles. About 91 military vehicles are sent to contractors each year for depot level maintenance and repair; the time allocated to complete each vehicle is 30 days. The research question focuses on the employees who are directly involved in the depot level maintenance and repair of military vehicles: the contractors (project managers and skilled personnel), the Armscor project managers, the Armscor quality specialists and the SA army product systems managers. The research shows that four factors affect the delivery of military vehicles during depot level maintenance and repair by the contractors. These are: · Ordering and receiving spares and components from the original equipment manufacturer (contractors project managers are not ordering spares and components on time from the original equipment manufacturer as per the bill of material which affects the delivery of the military vehicles from the depot); · Quality control inspection and acceptance (when Armscor quality specialists arrive for inspection, the vehicles are not ready for inspection); · Reporting and communication (Armscor process flow & project plan to conduct depot level maintenance and repair is not effective and Armscor project plans are not executed at depot level); and · Productivity of personnel (both male and female personnel are not motivated to be productive in executing depot level maintenance and repair of the military vehicles which affects the timeous delivery of the military vehicles). , M.Phil. (Engineering Management)
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Project constraints in a manufacturing environment - beyond the Iron Triangle
- Authors: Masopoga, Moloko
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Project management , Theory of constraints (Management)
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/280248 , uj:30111
- Description: M.Ing. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: Over the last few decades worldwide organisations have become more projects-centered. This has led to an expansion and redefinition of project management principles and tools. The general understanding is that a project is constrained by the triple constraints of scope, time and cost; the three elements must remain balanced for the project to be successful. Somehow some projects completed on time, within budget and to specification still find their way to the failure list. How is that so? The objective of this research was to determine the project constraints that must be considered to ensure project success in a typical manufacturing environment like a Pulp and Paper plant. The two Research questions that were addressed were: a) Are the Triple Constraints the only determinants of project success in a Pulp and Paper plant? b) Which other constraints, if any, contribute to project success/failure in a Pulp and Paper plant? The research methodology used to answer the research questions was a mixed –method approach. The modes of data collection were literature study, case studies and a survey questionnaire. The data was analysed using between-methods triangulation. The research concluded that the Triple constraints are not the only determinants of project success in a Pulp and Paper plant. Additional project constraints that were identified are: Risk Human resource management Legal requirements Technical performance
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- Authors: Masopoga, Moloko
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Project management , Theory of constraints (Management)
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/280248 , uj:30111
- Description: M.Ing. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: Over the last few decades worldwide organisations have become more projects-centered. This has led to an expansion and redefinition of project management principles and tools. The general understanding is that a project is constrained by the triple constraints of scope, time and cost; the three elements must remain balanced for the project to be successful. Somehow some projects completed on time, within budget and to specification still find their way to the failure list. How is that so? The objective of this research was to determine the project constraints that must be considered to ensure project success in a typical manufacturing environment like a Pulp and Paper plant. The two Research questions that were addressed were: a) Are the Triple Constraints the only determinants of project success in a Pulp and Paper plant? b) Which other constraints, if any, contribute to project success/failure in a Pulp and Paper plant? The research methodology used to answer the research questions was a mixed –method approach. The modes of data collection were literature study, case studies and a survey questionnaire. The data was analysed using between-methods triangulation. The research concluded that the Triple constraints are not the only determinants of project success in a Pulp and Paper plant. Additional project constraints that were identified are: Risk Human resource management Legal requirements Technical performance
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Strategic planning and risk analysis to prevent induction motor failure
- Authors: Mangwiro, Vhalani Virginia
- Date: 2018
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/398744 , uj:33208
- Description: Abstract : Medium Voltage (MV) Induction Motors (IMs) are widely used in industrial processes for many applications. This is due to their robust property, low maintenance and low cost. The purpose is to drive pumps, fans, compressors, blowers, conveyor belt, machine tools, elevators, mills and packaging equipment. These machines operate under high ambient temperatures, high moisture and dusty environment etc. Such environment can lead to motor damage resulting in unexpected maintenance downtime, high repair expenses, and production losses. IM are susceptible to several faults in industrial applications. If the fault is not identified at an early stage may lead to catastrophic failure resulting in severe damage to the motor. To provide reliable Condition Monitoring (CM) and protection technologies for medium voltage induction motors; this research focuses on determining the causes of IM failure in the Eskom power utility and proposing continuous on-line Condition Monitoring and protection methods which can detect, diagnose and prevent catastrophic failures in IM. A case study was conducted at Eskom Generation coal fired power stations on different type of MV squirrel cage IM ranging from nominal Voltage 3.3kV to 11kV supplied from 50Hz three phase source operating above 75% of full load current conditions. A comprehensive review of different condition monitoring and protection technologies was presented in this research. It was found that the factors leading to IM failure in Eskom power station are mechanical stress, electrical stress, environmental stress and abnormal operating conditions. The highest rate of failure is caused by mechanical stress with bearing failure being the most constitute followed by the stator failures. It was also found that there are certain CM and protection techniques not installed on motors to detect and diagnose faults. The power utility can accumulate revenue savings and prevent loss of production if these technologies are installed. This research further proposes strategies on how to conduct proper planning before implementing the proposed technologies and how to conduct risk analysis considering financial constraints in order to assist management in decision making on allocating funding to projects of higher priority. , M.Ing. (Engineering Management)
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- Authors: Mangwiro, Vhalani Virginia
- Date: 2018
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/398744 , uj:33208
- Description: Abstract : Medium Voltage (MV) Induction Motors (IMs) are widely used in industrial processes for many applications. This is due to their robust property, low maintenance and low cost. The purpose is to drive pumps, fans, compressors, blowers, conveyor belt, machine tools, elevators, mills and packaging equipment. These machines operate under high ambient temperatures, high moisture and dusty environment etc. Such environment can lead to motor damage resulting in unexpected maintenance downtime, high repair expenses, and production losses. IM are susceptible to several faults in industrial applications. If the fault is not identified at an early stage may lead to catastrophic failure resulting in severe damage to the motor. To provide reliable Condition Monitoring (CM) and protection technologies for medium voltage induction motors; this research focuses on determining the causes of IM failure in the Eskom power utility and proposing continuous on-line Condition Monitoring and protection methods which can detect, diagnose and prevent catastrophic failures in IM. A case study was conducted at Eskom Generation coal fired power stations on different type of MV squirrel cage IM ranging from nominal Voltage 3.3kV to 11kV supplied from 50Hz three phase source operating above 75% of full load current conditions. A comprehensive review of different condition monitoring and protection technologies was presented in this research. It was found that the factors leading to IM failure in Eskom power station are mechanical stress, electrical stress, environmental stress and abnormal operating conditions. The highest rate of failure is caused by mechanical stress with bearing failure being the most constitute followed by the stator failures. It was also found that there are certain CM and protection techniques not installed on motors to detect and diagnose faults. The power utility can accumulate revenue savings and prevent loss of production if these technologies are installed. This research further proposes strategies on how to conduct proper planning before implementing the proposed technologies and how to conduct risk analysis considering financial constraints in order to assist management in decision making on allocating funding to projects of higher priority. , M.Ing. (Engineering Management)
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The advantages of predictive maintenance as a means to improve the availability of centrifugal slurry pump at Ergo City Deep Plant
- Authors: Martinus, Aroon
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Mining machinery - Maintenance and repair , Pumping machinery - Maintenance and repair , Plant maintenance - Management
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/284823 , uj:30776
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: Condition monitoring is the process of monitoring a parameter of condition (vibration, temperature etc.) in machinery in order to identify a significant change which is indicative of developing fault. It is a major component of Predictive Maintenance. The use of condition monitoring allows maintenance to be scheduled, or other actions to be taken to prevent failure and it consequences. Predictive Maintenance helps the organization to predict equipment failure before a catastrophic failure can occur. The purpose for implementing Predictive Maintenance in industry is to increase productivity, decrease maintenance costs and downtime, and also to increase safety. In this study, Predictive Maintenance was implemented as a means to improve the availability of a centrifugal slurry pump, and conclusions were made on whether it is a better method than reactive maintenance to minimize equipment downtime and maintenance operation costs. Centrifugal slurry pumps are used in many applications such as in the mining, chemical and in the industrial plants. Ergo City Deep Plant uses centrifugal slurry pumps to pump slurry from its City Deep pumping station to Elsburg pumping station over a distance of about 50 km. Due to unplanned breakdowns, the pumps are not operating at peak efficiency point, and as a result the plant does not meet its monthly production target. Before the implementation of Predictive Maintenance, no planned maintenance strategy was done on the pumps. Ergo City Deep Plant used reactive (breakdown) maintenance, which had escalated the maintenance operating costs year on year. Reactive Maintenance methods result in huge unplanned costs as well as overheads if the budget for maintenance is exceeded in order to restore the pump into working order. Hench in this study, Predictive Maintenance by using Condition Monitoring techniques was used to improve the availability of a centrifugal slurry pump. From the field data the pump availability increased by Predictive Maintenance. The research field data resulted in decrease in downtime and equipment failures, and also reduced maintenance costs. It was concluded that Predictive Maintenance is a better maintenance method than reactive maintenance.
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- Authors: Martinus, Aroon
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Mining machinery - Maintenance and repair , Pumping machinery - Maintenance and repair , Plant maintenance - Management
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/284823 , uj:30776
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: Condition monitoring is the process of monitoring a parameter of condition (vibration, temperature etc.) in machinery in order to identify a significant change which is indicative of developing fault. It is a major component of Predictive Maintenance. The use of condition monitoring allows maintenance to be scheduled, or other actions to be taken to prevent failure and it consequences. Predictive Maintenance helps the organization to predict equipment failure before a catastrophic failure can occur. The purpose for implementing Predictive Maintenance in industry is to increase productivity, decrease maintenance costs and downtime, and also to increase safety. In this study, Predictive Maintenance was implemented as a means to improve the availability of a centrifugal slurry pump, and conclusions were made on whether it is a better method than reactive maintenance to minimize equipment downtime and maintenance operation costs. Centrifugal slurry pumps are used in many applications such as in the mining, chemical and in the industrial plants. Ergo City Deep Plant uses centrifugal slurry pumps to pump slurry from its City Deep pumping station to Elsburg pumping station over a distance of about 50 km. Due to unplanned breakdowns, the pumps are not operating at peak efficiency point, and as a result the plant does not meet its monthly production target. Before the implementation of Predictive Maintenance, no planned maintenance strategy was done on the pumps. Ergo City Deep Plant used reactive (breakdown) maintenance, which had escalated the maintenance operating costs year on year. Reactive Maintenance methods result in huge unplanned costs as well as overheads if the budget for maintenance is exceeded in order to restore the pump into working order. Hench in this study, Predictive Maintenance by using Condition Monitoring techniques was used to improve the availability of a centrifugal slurry pump. From the field data the pump availability increased by Predictive Maintenance. The research field data resulted in decrease in downtime and equipment failures, and also reduced maintenance costs. It was concluded that Predictive Maintenance is a better maintenance method than reactive maintenance.
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Waste sand management in South African foundries
- Authors: Madzivhandila, Takalani
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Manufacturing industries - Environmental aspects , Greensand - Recycling - South Africa , Sand, Foundry - South Africa , Industrial ecology
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/263158 , uj:27813
- Description:
D.Phil.
, Abstract: We live in a world of increasing scarcity. There is limited raw natural resources, financial resources are often not enough, and acquiring land for waste disposal is getting even more difficult and costly. Government ought to set policy directions aiming for efficient use of resources based on society, keeping in mind that the end goal is to give a spotless, sound and attractive living environment to residents for present and for the future. They should likewise take a gander at how to support re-use of by-products of industrial manufacturing in other processes to make other products. The study focused on the management of waste foundry sand. Manufacturing is the backbone of any modern economy and the foundry industry is a very crucial part of manufacturing. It provides critical inputs to most of the manufacturing sectors, with mining, automotive, and general engineering being the largest industries it supplies. Challenges faced by the industry include waste management regulations. Annual waste foundry sand generated is estimated to be 350 000 tons of Silica sand and 25 000 tons of Chromite sand. Because of the classification of spent foundry sand as a waste item, all foundry operations right now require a Waste Management License for the storage and handling of foundry sand. Waste foundry sand is classified as General Waste as well as Hazardous Waste in the National Environmental Management: Waste Act of 2008. In this study, waste foundry sand was characterised and compared with the current legislation. All polluting elements (chromium, zinc, copper, manganese, lead, cobalt and nickel) found in the waste foundry sand were above LCT0 but below LCT1 (LCT0
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- Authors: Madzivhandila, Takalani
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Manufacturing industries - Environmental aspects , Greensand - Recycling - South Africa , Sand, Foundry - South Africa , Industrial ecology
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/263158 , uj:27813
- Description:
D.Phil.
, Abstract: We live in a world of increasing scarcity. There is limited raw natural resources, financial resources are often not enough, and acquiring land for waste disposal is getting even more difficult and costly. Government ought to set policy directions aiming for efficient use of resources based on society, keeping in mind that the end goal is to give a spotless, sound and attractive living environment to residents for present and for the future. They should likewise take a gander at how to support re-use of by-products of industrial manufacturing in other processes to make other products. The study focused on the management of waste foundry sand. Manufacturing is the backbone of any modern economy and the foundry industry is a very crucial part of manufacturing. It provides critical inputs to most of the manufacturing sectors, with mining, automotive, and general engineering being the largest industries it supplies. Challenges faced by the industry include waste management regulations. Annual waste foundry sand generated is estimated to be 350 000 tons of Silica sand and 25 000 tons of Chromite sand. Because of the classification of spent foundry sand as a waste item, all foundry operations right now require a Waste Management License for the storage and handling of foundry sand. Waste foundry sand is classified as General Waste as well as Hazardous Waste in the National Environmental Management: Waste Act of 2008. In this study, waste foundry sand was characterised and compared with the current legislation. All polluting elements (chromium, zinc, copper, manganese, lead, cobalt and nickel) found in the waste foundry sand were above LCT0 but below LCT1 (LCT0
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Application of reliability engineering in the chemical process plant, to improve reliability and maintainability of equipment
- Authors: Mamatlepa, Makgomo Thelma
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Chemical plants - Equipment and supplies , Chemical plants - Equipment and supplies - Maintenance and repair , Plant maintenance , Reliability (Engineering)
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/242393 , uj:24999
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: By definition, reliability is the probability that a system (could be equipment, vehicle, machine or even a product) performs its intended function, under specified conditions or environment for a set period of time. The Chemical plant at Company X has been struggling to produce PGM salts in a specified time duration due factors such as equipment failure, process related issues and product quality. This paper addresses the importance and value of reliability engineering to the Company X Chemical plant and reasons for considering reliability engineering more fundamentally in the management of operations and maintenance in the plant. The study focused on production loss; factors that contribute to production loss and reliability theory that can be applied to the plant with special focus on equipment failures. The study achieved the research objectives through an extensive study of literature related to the research topic and implementation of practical research. Practical research was carried out through the collection of empirical data from the day to running of the plant, whereby every production stoppage was captured with causes of the interruption. The study employed qualitative method through review of literature to compare what other authors have discovered about different reliability tools and effective maintenance strategies. A case study method was employed to satisfy the other two objectives whereby data was collected, analysed and interpreted to identify factors that contributes to production loss. The results revealed equipment failures as the main contributing factor to production loss in the plant; this was further broken down to individual vessels to see which ones experience the most failures or have shorter MTTF. The findings of the study revealed further that; in order to improve reliability, availability and maintainability of equipment in the plant, a proper RCM process could add value in the plant. RCM analysis will identify most problematic equipment with most failures, analyse failure modes through FMEA process and suggest maintenance strategies that can be implemented to improve performance of the plant. It is concluded that current corrective maintenance approach in the plant is ineffective because it fails to pre-empt or prevent failures before they occur, instead opting for a more proactive preventative maintenance approach will be cost effective for the company. And that reliability theory should be applied specifically for each plant and not use a holistic approach because plants are unique and operate under different conditions...
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- Authors: Mamatlepa, Makgomo Thelma
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Chemical plants - Equipment and supplies , Chemical plants - Equipment and supplies - Maintenance and repair , Plant maintenance , Reliability (Engineering)
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/242393 , uj:24999
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: By definition, reliability is the probability that a system (could be equipment, vehicle, machine or even a product) performs its intended function, under specified conditions or environment for a set period of time. The Chemical plant at Company X has been struggling to produce PGM salts in a specified time duration due factors such as equipment failure, process related issues and product quality. This paper addresses the importance and value of reliability engineering to the Company X Chemical plant and reasons for considering reliability engineering more fundamentally in the management of operations and maintenance in the plant. The study focused on production loss; factors that contribute to production loss and reliability theory that can be applied to the plant with special focus on equipment failures. The study achieved the research objectives through an extensive study of literature related to the research topic and implementation of practical research. Practical research was carried out through the collection of empirical data from the day to running of the plant, whereby every production stoppage was captured with causes of the interruption. The study employed qualitative method through review of literature to compare what other authors have discovered about different reliability tools and effective maintenance strategies. A case study method was employed to satisfy the other two objectives whereby data was collected, analysed and interpreted to identify factors that contributes to production loss. The results revealed equipment failures as the main contributing factor to production loss in the plant; this was further broken down to individual vessels to see which ones experience the most failures or have shorter MTTF. The findings of the study revealed further that; in order to improve reliability, availability and maintainability of equipment in the plant, a proper RCM process could add value in the plant. RCM analysis will identify most problematic equipment with most failures, analyse failure modes through FMEA process and suggest maintenance strategies that can be implemented to improve performance of the plant. It is concluded that current corrective maintenance approach in the plant is ineffective because it fails to pre-empt or prevent failures before they occur, instead opting for a more proactive preventative maintenance approach will be cost effective for the company. And that reliability theory should be applied specifically for each plant and not use a holistic approach because plants are unique and operate under different conditions...
- Full Text:
Asset modelling framework for use in computerised physical asset management systems
- Authors: Henry, C.A.
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Assets (Accounting) - Management , Engineering - Management , Information technology , Reliability (Engineering)
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/269606 , uj:28642
- Description: M.Ing. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: The objective of the research is to formulate a simplified physical asset modelling framework that is universal to any industry or any asset type, for use in the chosen Computerised Physical Asset Management System (CPAMS) such that it provides the benefit of improved management of physical assets over its lifecycle. The research highlights that there are numerous CPAMS, whether branded as ERPS, CMMS, EAMS or CFMS as example, however the track record of providing organisational benefit given the significant initial and ongoing investment, is limited. The literature review highlights that the configuration of the CPAMS is one of the contributors to limited benefit, where configuration refers to the structuring and organisation of the CPAMS to do that which the user require. One aspect of the CPAMS configuration is the physical asset modelling framework within which the physical assets are recorded in the CPAMS along with its myriad of data, information and various settings. In addition to that which is entered by the user, the processing of various performances and reporting against the asset modelling framework is equally critical. The development of the physical asset modelling framework involved two independent approaches, firstly deriving a framework from literature review of reliability and logistics engineering theory, and secondly, a framework derived from the research of existing industry asset and asset hierarchy naming conventions, standards or frameworks. The theory-derived framework was validated by the existing industry frameworks with the difference that majority of the existing industry frameworks has an additional organisation level in the hierarchy. A single physical asset modelling framework was derived from the nine existing industry frameworks and since this also validated the theory-derived framework, the industry-derived framework was concluded as the universal simplified physical asset modelling framework. A CPAMS is a necessity for the optimised management of physical assets over its lifecycle to achieve levels of sustained performance required by the organisation’s long-term business strategy and real-time operations. A CPAMS has the potential to realise this optimised management, however, and this is to be emphasised, this potential is only realisable when the CPAMS is configured and maintained by skilled asset management professionals having detailed understanding of what is required for lifecycle asset management, and therefore how the CPAMS must enable this management. This research has developed one such critical requirement which is a universal simplified physical asset modelling framework.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Henry, C.A.
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Assets (Accounting) - Management , Engineering - Management , Information technology , Reliability (Engineering)
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/269606 , uj:28642
- Description: M.Ing. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: The objective of the research is to formulate a simplified physical asset modelling framework that is universal to any industry or any asset type, for use in the chosen Computerised Physical Asset Management System (CPAMS) such that it provides the benefit of improved management of physical assets over its lifecycle. The research highlights that there are numerous CPAMS, whether branded as ERPS, CMMS, EAMS or CFMS as example, however the track record of providing organisational benefit given the significant initial and ongoing investment, is limited. The literature review highlights that the configuration of the CPAMS is one of the contributors to limited benefit, where configuration refers to the structuring and organisation of the CPAMS to do that which the user require. One aspect of the CPAMS configuration is the physical asset modelling framework within which the physical assets are recorded in the CPAMS along with its myriad of data, information and various settings. In addition to that which is entered by the user, the processing of various performances and reporting against the asset modelling framework is equally critical. The development of the physical asset modelling framework involved two independent approaches, firstly deriving a framework from literature review of reliability and logistics engineering theory, and secondly, a framework derived from the research of existing industry asset and asset hierarchy naming conventions, standards or frameworks. The theory-derived framework was validated by the existing industry frameworks with the difference that majority of the existing industry frameworks has an additional organisation level in the hierarchy. A single physical asset modelling framework was derived from the nine existing industry frameworks and since this also validated the theory-derived framework, the industry-derived framework was concluded as the universal simplified physical asset modelling framework. A CPAMS is a necessity for the optimised management of physical assets over its lifecycle to achieve levels of sustained performance required by the organisation’s long-term business strategy and real-time operations. A CPAMS has the potential to realise this optimised management, however, and this is to be emphasised, this potential is only realisable when the CPAMS is configured and maintained by skilled asset management professionals having detailed understanding of what is required for lifecycle asset management, and therefore how the CPAMS must enable this management. This research has developed one such critical requirement which is a universal simplified physical asset modelling framework.
- Full Text:
Evaluation of forecasting methods for critical maintenance spare parts for the bus industry in South Africa
- Authors: Wanda, Andrew P.L.
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Machine parts - South Africa - Maintenance and repair , Machine parts industry - South Africa , Bus industry - South Africa - Quality control , Buses - South Africa - Maintenance and repair
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://ujcontent.uj.ac.za8080/10210/366596 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/285876 , uj:30924
- Description: Abstract: Maintenance activities plays an important role in the bus industry, as it affects the buses availability. The success of maintenance in the bus industry depends on the availability of critical maintenance spare parts. The non-availability of buses to take shifts often results in bus companies: (i) loosing revenues, (ii) having its customers becoming dis-satisfied, (iii) getting monetary penalties, (iv) loosing market share, and (v) possible loosing operated contracts. The critical maintenance spare parts in the bus industry plays an important role. It ensures bus availability and also improves the safety of buses. The increasing importance of management of the critical maintenance spare parts calls for an improved forecasting strategies of the critical maintenance spare parts. This thesis focusses on evaluating the forecasting strategies and techniques of the critical maintenance spare parts in the bus industry. The research focussed on the bus operating companies in South Africa (both operated by municipalities and private owners). The data was collected by means of questionnaires and face-to-face interviews (which were a combination of structured and unstructured questions). The research involved 840 research participants. The researcher used the computer-aided programme such as Statistical Process Software for Social Sciences (SPSS) to manipulate the data. In addition, the researcher used Ms Office Packages (i.e. Word, Excel and PowerPoint) in presenting the final results of the research. The results of the study indicated that the bus industry uses a combination of judgemental and scientific methods in forecasting the need for spare parts for the bus industry. However, the judgemental method (in the form of the experience of the staff/trends/anticipated products usage) – was discovered to be the method widely used. The results of the study also indicated that the industry is fragmented, with different players uses different Information Technologies (IT) systems, with less data sharing amongst players of the industry, government not playing a critical role of regulating the industry, the majority of spare parts are sourced in the international markets (localisation of production is very small), and the industry is not developing at the same rate. The researcher compared the forecasting techniques used by bus industry in South Africa to those used by bus industry in the semi-developed and well developed worlds. The researcher found that in the developed bus market, scientific techniques are used to forecast the critical maintenance spare parts. The researcher concentrated only on relatively expensive, critical parts, which are subject to field failures with operational consequences. This does not mean that the researcher disregarded non-expensive parts, which in most cases account for a large number of inventories in the bus operating industry. The reasons for not focussing on them were that (i) it is easy to determine demand and usage of less critical parts, (ii) obtaining them from suppliers often involves shorter lead times, and (iii) non-critical parts are often sourced locally. This research defers to the previous research as it addresses a number of issues: (i) risks and cost models for optimization of repairable and non-repairable parts, (ii) total life cycle of the bus, and (iii) repairing critical spare parts can be unlimited. , D.Phil. (Engineering Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Wanda, Andrew P.L.
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Machine parts - South Africa - Maintenance and repair , Machine parts industry - South Africa , Bus industry - South Africa - Quality control , Buses - South Africa - Maintenance and repair
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://ujcontent.uj.ac.za8080/10210/366596 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/285876 , uj:30924
- Description: Abstract: Maintenance activities plays an important role in the bus industry, as it affects the buses availability. The success of maintenance in the bus industry depends on the availability of critical maintenance spare parts. The non-availability of buses to take shifts often results in bus companies: (i) loosing revenues, (ii) having its customers becoming dis-satisfied, (iii) getting monetary penalties, (iv) loosing market share, and (v) possible loosing operated contracts. The critical maintenance spare parts in the bus industry plays an important role. It ensures bus availability and also improves the safety of buses. The increasing importance of management of the critical maintenance spare parts calls for an improved forecasting strategies of the critical maintenance spare parts. This thesis focusses on evaluating the forecasting strategies and techniques of the critical maintenance spare parts in the bus industry. The research focussed on the bus operating companies in South Africa (both operated by municipalities and private owners). The data was collected by means of questionnaires and face-to-face interviews (which were a combination of structured and unstructured questions). The research involved 840 research participants. The researcher used the computer-aided programme such as Statistical Process Software for Social Sciences (SPSS) to manipulate the data. In addition, the researcher used Ms Office Packages (i.e. Word, Excel and PowerPoint) in presenting the final results of the research. The results of the study indicated that the bus industry uses a combination of judgemental and scientific methods in forecasting the need for spare parts for the bus industry. However, the judgemental method (in the form of the experience of the staff/trends/anticipated products usage) – was discovered to be the method widely used. The results of the study also indicated that the industry is fragmented, with different players uses different Information Technologies (IT) systems, with less data sharing amongst players of the industry, government not playing a critical role of regulating the industry, the majority of spare parts are sourced in the international markets (localisation of production is very small), and the industry is not developing at the same rate. The researcher compared the forecasting techniques used by bus industry in South Africa to those used by bus industry in the semi-developed and well developed worlds. The researcher found that in the developed bus market, scientific techniques are used to forecast the critical maintenance spare parts. The researcher concentrated only on relatively expensive, critical parts, which are subject to field failures with operational consequences. This does not mean that the researcher disregarded non-expensive parts, which in most cases account for a large number of inventories in the bus operating industry. The reasons for not focussing on them were that (i) it is easy to determine demand and usage of less critical parts, (ii) obtaining them from suppliers often involves shorter lead times, and (iii) non-critical parts are often sourced locally. This research defers to the previous research as it addresses a number of issues: (i) risks and cost models for optimization of repairable and non-repairable parts, (ii) total life cycle of the bus, and (iii) repairing critical spare parts can be unlimited. , D.Phil. (Engineering Management)
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The benefits of asset management in improving manufacturing performance in an explosives manufacturing plant
- Authors: Phindela, Bonga
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Assets (Accounting) - Management , Asset-liability management , Industrial management
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/269267 , uj:28605
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: Asset Management provides care for equipment in a factory, which will ensure that the equipment delivers the required volume, at the expected quality, in the safest way possible, and still reach the expected lifespan within cost. Any manufacturing facility, however big or small, has a goal to deliver the compelling business needs within a required timeframe, and still allow for effectiveness in the day to day running of the processes that contribute towards the overall growth of the business. Without full engagement of all people in a company’s spectrum, an asset management strategy can fail. It is therefore essential to ensure that satisfaction of the workforce is met to allow total productivity and ensure that any organisation can maximise on its compelling business needs’ outputs. People are the company’s best assets and just like machinery, without proper care, the performance of a manufacturing facility can be adversely affected. If asset management is applied as a strategy to improve the performance of production machinery, can it have a direct, positive impact on the availability of equipment, production output, overall safety, quality, cost efficiency, and employee morale? This paper aims to observe the impact that an asset management strategy can have on the performance of an explosives manufacturing organisation. It explores the ways in which South African manufacturing industries can implement asset management as a strategy for improving their performance, and undertakes observation of an organisation prior to asset management implementation, and then post asset management implementation. The observations are compared to confirm asset management as a significant element in the organisation’s results.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Phindela, Bonga
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Assets (Accounting) - Management , Asset-liability management , Industrial management
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/269267 , uj:28605
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: Asset Management provides care for equipment in a factory, which will ensure that the equipment delivers the required volume, at the expected quality, in the safest way possible, and still reach the expected lifespan within cost. Any manufacturing facility, however big or small, has a goal to deliver the compelling business needs within a required timeframe, and still allow for effectiveness in the day to day running of the processes that contribute towards the overall growth of the business. Without full engagement of all people in a company’s spectrum, an asset management strategy can fail. It is therefore essential to ensure that satisfaction of the workforce is met to allow total productivity and ensure that any organisation can maximise on its compelling business needs’ outputs. People are the company’s best assets and just like machinery, without proper care, the performance of a manufacturing facility can be adversely affected. If asset management is applied as a strategy to improve the performance of production machinery, can it have a direct, positive impact on the availability of equipment, production output, overall safety, quality, cost efficiency, and employee morale? This paper aims to observe the impact that an asset management strategy can have on the performance of an explosives manufacturing organisation. It explores the ways in which South African manufacturing industries can implement asset management as a strategy for improving their performance, and undertakes observation of an organisation prior to asset management implementation, and then post asset management implementation. The observations are compared to confirm asset management as a significant element in the organisation’s results.
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Critical success factors influencing project success in infrastructure projects : a comparative case study
- Authors: Makabate, Choeu Tshepisho
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Construction projects - Management - Case studies , Construction industry - Management - Case studies , Project management - Case studies , Infrastructure (Economics)
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/213405 , uj:21149
- Description: Abstract: When projects do not meet the objectives and purposes, it’s common to review the project after completion and find out why the project failed so that the same mistakes do not get repeated in future projects. However in some cases Project Managers would tend to ignore this issue because they find new projects that they are in charge of as more interesting than the completed ones. For this issue the research therefore attempts to identify critical success factors (CSF’s) that influence project success. A proposed hypothesis was developed to help set the tone of this research. The presence of critical success factors on infrastructure projects contribute to project success. Two case studies were performed in order to find the factors that influence project success in infrastructure projects. The hypothesis was tested and it confirmed that critical success factors do indeed influence project success in infrastructure projects. Therefore the research identified critical success factors that influence project success in infrastructure projects. In summary, the critical success factors discovered in this study are political influence, project manager competence, adequate planning, adequacy of plans, realistic goals and objectives, owners involvement, ability to carry out meetings, buy in of local chieftaincy, availability of stakeholders, adequate planning, community involvement, roster strategy, interpretation of contracts, relationship between contractor and project team, labour unrest and project team competence. Further comparison and analysis resulted in the identification of the six highest critical success factors for the construction industry. In descending order of importance, these are:.. , M.Phil. (Engineering Management)
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- Authors: Makabate, Choeu Tshepisho
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Construction projects - Management - Case studies , Construction industry - Management - Case studies , Project management - Case studies , Infrastructure (Economics)
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/213405 , uj:21149
- Description: Abstract: When projects do not meet the objectives and purposes, it’s common to review the project after completion and find out why the project failed so that the same mistakes do not get repeated in future projects. However in some cases Project Managers would tend to ignore this issue because they find new projects that they are in charge of as more interesting than the completed ones. For this issue the research therefore attempts to identify critical success factors (CSF’s) that influence project success. A proposed hypothesis was developed to help set the tone of this research. The presence of critical success factors on infrastructure projects contribute to project success. Two case studies were performed in order to find the factors that influence project success in infrastructure projects. The hypothesis was tested and it confirmed that critical success factors do indeed influence project success in infrastructure projects. Therefore the research identified critical success factors that influence project success in infrastructure projects. In summary, the critical success factors discovered in this study are political influence, project manager competence, adequate planning, adequacy of plans, realistic goals and objectives, owners involvement, ability to carry out meetings, buy in of local chieftaincy, availability of stakeholders, adequate planning, community involvement, roster strategy, interpretation of contracts, relationship between contractor and project team, labour unrest and project team competence. Further comparison and analysis resulted in the identification of the six highest critical success factors for the construction industry. In descending order of importance, these are:.. , M.Phil. (Engineering Management)
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Evaluating an empirical relationship between recloser placement and reliability improvement in distribution networks
- Authors: Thomas, Ponny
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Electric networks , Electric power distribution , Electric power transmission , Eskom (Firm)
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/213003 , uj:21065
- Description: Abstract: The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) has implemented an Incentive- Based Regulation (IBR) scheme that either rewards or penalizes distributors on the System- Average Interruption-Duration Index (SAIDI) and other network performance indices [1]. The optimal placement of automatic reclosers (auto-reclosers) is seen as a cost-effective measure to reduce the system-average interruption-duration index (SAIDI) impact along a medium voltage (MV) feeder. An auto-recloser is seen as a function of distribution automation (DA), thus reducing customer impact. A great advantage of a correctly implemented and operated DA system can improve network reliability significantly. This dissertation evaluates the empirical relationship between recloser placement and reliability from the perspective of control and instrumentation within ESKOM. It also puts forward an additional performance-improvement framework that can be implemented to achieve RAM (Reliability, Availability and Maintainability) management. Loop automation functionality is also under discussion; this is a Distribution-System Automation-scheme that restores the supply to the fault-free sections of a network, if they have been disconnected, because of a fault in another section of the network. Loop automation can also restore the normal network configuration automatically, when the faulty section is repaired. The process of isolating the faulty section and re-configuring the network to restore supply back to the fault-free sections is the first capability of Loop Automation. This research investigation assesses two different scenarios, namely: A conventional implementation of auto-reclosers on MV networks using Eskom reliability standard; and (ii.) the findings of a case-study using this recloser implementation (loop automation) to improve the reliability and the system’s performance. Results obtained are presented and discussed. , M.Phil. (Engineering Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Thomas, Ponny
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Electric networks , Electric power distribution , Electric power transmission , Eskom (Firm)
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/213003 , uj:21065
- Description: Abstract: The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) has implemented an Incentive- Based Regulation (IBR) scheme that either rewards or penalizes distributors on the System- Average Interruption-Duration Index (SAIDI) and other network performance indices [1]. The optimal placement of automatic reclosers (auto-reclosers) is seen as a cost-effective measure to reduce the system-average interruption-duration index (SAIDI) impact along a medium voltage (MV) feeder. An auto-recloser is seen as a function of distribution automation (DA), thus reducing customer impact. A great advantage of a correctly implemented and operated DA system can improve network reliability significantly. This dissertation evaluates the empirical relationship between recloser placement and reliability from the perspective of control and instrumentation within ESKOM. It also puts forward an additional performance-improvement framework that can be implemented to achieve RAM (Reliability, Availability and Maintainability) management. Loop automation functionality is also under discussion; this is a Distribution-System Automation-scheme that restores the supply to the fault-free sections of a network, if they have been disconnected, because of a fault in another section of the network. Loop automation can also restore the normal network configuration automatically, when the faulty section is repaired. The process of isolating the faulty section and re-configuring the network to restore supply back to the fault-free sections is the first capability of Loop Automation. This research investigation assesses two different scenarios, namely: A conventional implementation of auto-reclosers on MV networks using Eskom reliability standard; and (ii.) the findings of a case-study using this recloser implementation (loop automation) to improve the reliability and the system’s performance. Results obtained are presented and discussed. , M.Phil. (Engineering Management)
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Maintenance management effect on zirconia oxygen analyzer performance : a case study in Natref
- Authors: Mokhele, Lebohang Modupi
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Plant maintenance - Management , Maintenance - Management , Chemical detectors , Zirconium oxide
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/233762 , uj:23873
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: Oxygen concentration measurements are used in different applications including energy conservation, pollution reduction and process quality control. The use of these applications is through many different technologies of instruments. Zirconia-based Oxygen Analyzers however, are commonly used for combustion control, burner optimization and to increase the efficiency of boilers and industrial heaters in order to achieve fuel conservation. In this instance, I will be exploring the ZR22G of Yokogawa. The ZR22G is like any other instrument in that; there is a possibility of failure during operation. Therefore using of logistics engineering elements and reliability techniques ensures that the ZR22G is supported effectively thought out its life cycle. The purpose of this dissertation is to determine the possible causes of oxygen concentration fluctuating greater or lower by 0.5% on ZR22G compared to a portable oxygen meter, and identify the risks associated with the unit reading higher or lower than the true value and determine the logistic footprint (life cycle support system) of the zirconia oxygen analyzer. The mini dissention uses a qualitative and quantitative approach, a structured questionnaire as well as an analysis of literature. The FMECA and FTA models established that a lower reading than true value is caused by indirect and direct human engagement with the unit and the use of combustible materials during the process. The FMECA and FTA models established a higher reading than true value is also a result of direct or indirect human engagement with the unit, Fly ash and the use of combustible materials during the process. It was established that the risk associated with the failure mode of the unit causes hazards and creates a costly environments. In addition, it was established that incorrect reading of the unit output can cause the process operator to actor incorrectly. Preventive maintenance and corrective maintenance are maintenance activities that are required to support the unit thought-out its life cycle .Furthermore, the use of the convection tube method decreases the effect of fly ash by prolonging the blockage of the ZR22G zirconia sensor. The benefit of this mini dissention is to provide users of the ZR22G with a guide which will assist in finding fault in the ZR22G moreover make them aware of risk associated with the unit not performing optimally.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mokhele, Lebohang Modupi
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Plant maintenance - Management , Maintenance - Management , Chemical detectors , Zirconium oxide
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/233762 , uj:23873
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: Oxygen concentration measurements are used in different applications including energy conservation, pollution reduction and process quality control. The use of these applications is through many different technologies of instruments. Zirconia-based Oxygen Analyzers however, are commonly used for combustion control, burner optimization and to increase the efficiency of boilers and industrial heaters in order to achieve fuel conservation. In this instance, I will be exploring the ZR22G of Yokogawa. The ZR22G is like any other instrument in that; there is a possibility of failure during operation. Therefore using of logistics engineering elements and reliability techniques ensures that the ZR22G is supported effectively thought out its life cycle. The purpose of this dissertation is to determine the possible causes of oxygen concentration fluctuating greater or lower by 0.5% on ZR22G compared to a portable oxygen meter, and identify the risks associated with the unit reading higher or lower than the true value and determine the logistic footprint (life cycle support system) of the zirconia oxygen analyzer. The mini dissention uses a qualitative and quantitative approach, a structured questionnaire as well as an analysis of literature. The FMECA and FTA models established that a lower reading than true value is caused by indirect and direct human engagement with the unit and the use of combustible materials during the process. The FMECA and FTA models established a higher reading than true value is also a result of direct or indirect human engagement with the unit, Fly ash and the use of combustible materials during the process. It was established that the risk associated with the failure mode of the unit causes hazards and creates a costly environments. In addition, it was established that incorrect reading of the unit output can cause the process operator to actor incorrectly. Preventive maintenance and corrective maintenance are maintenance activities that are required to support the unit thought-out its life cycle .Furthermore, the use of the convection tube method decreases the effect of fly ash by prolonging the blockage of the ZR22G zirconia sensor. The benefit of this mini dissention is to provide users of the ZR22G with a guide which will assist in finding fault in the ZR22G moreover make them aware of risk associated with the unit not performing optimally.
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Power transformer failure management on the Eskom distribution network in Limpopo
- Authors: Sako, Maite Martha
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Eskom (Firm( , Electronic transformers , Electric power distribution , Electric power systems
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/242337 , uj:24992
- Description: M.Ing. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: Electricity is a crucial key component in the everyday life influencing the economy, safety, health, productivity and comfort of the people. Power utilities continue to make the continuity of electricity supply to the consumers their first priority. Power transformers are the crucial part of the power system network because they regulate the voltage either up or down on the electrical network for safe use by the consumers. Their reliable operation on the network is very critical because it directly impacts the reliability and stability of the entire electrical network connected to it. One of the major challenges power utilities face is the failure of substation power transformers on the distribution network. Sudden failures of these transformers cause the interruption of supply to the customers. For the utility, it causes high transformer repair costs and revenue loss. The power utility is also forced to replace the failed power transformers in order to reduce the outage time for the affected customers. Although power transformers have become the heart of the distribution network, the success rate for these transformers to complete their full life cycle is not a guarantee. The performance of the power transformers on the Limpopo distribution network has not reached the projected target set by the plant performance department in the past four years and this is cause for great concern. There was a number of power transformer failures recorded in the substations. After investigations were conducted, it was found that the major causes for these failures were aging, overloading, improper maintenance schedule, internal faults and insufficient security measures in substations in remote areas. This dissertation looks at the methodologies that are currently being implemented to ensure that the installed substation power transformers approach or complete their full life cycle. It further proposes the improvement of the methodologies currently being implemented. The conclusion reached in this study is that in order for the substation power transformer failures on the Eskom distribution network in Limpopo to decrease, the methods that can alleviate the problem include: installation of an online monitoring system on the power transformers; improvement of the maintenance schedule; installation of a backup transformers in single transformer substations; improvement of the security measures in substations that are located in remote areas; putting asset replacement plans in place for transformers that are approaching their...
- Full Text:
- Authors: Sako, Maite Martha
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Eskom (Firm( , Electronic transformers , Electric power distribution , Electric power systems
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/242337 , uj:24992
- Description: M.Ing. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: Electricity is a crucial key component in the everyday life influencing the economy, safety, health, productivity and comfort of the people. Power utilities continue to make the continuity of electricity supply to the consumers their first priority. Power transformers are the crucial part of the power system network because they regulate the voltage either up or down on the electrical network for safe use by the consumers. Their reliable operation on the network is very critical because it directly impacts the reliability and stability of the entire electrical network connected to it. One of the major challenges power utilities face is the failure of substation power transformers on the distribution network. Sudden failures of these transformers cause the interruption of supply to the customers. For the utility, it causes high transformer repair costs and revenue loss. The power utility is also forced to replace the failed power transformers in order to reduce the outage time for the affected customers. Although power transformers have become the heart of the distribution network, the success rate for these transformers to complete their full life cycle is not a guarantee. The performance of the power transformers on the Limpopo distribution network has not reached the projected target set by the plant performance department in the past four years and this is cause for great concern. There was a number of power transformer failures recorded in the substations. After investigations were conducted, it was found that the major causes for these failures were aging, overloading, improper maintenance schedule, internal faults and insufficient security measures in substations in remote areas. This dissertation looks at the methodologies that are currently being implemented to ensure that the installed substation power transformers approach or complete their full life cycle. It further proposes the improvement of the methodologies currently being implemented. The conclusion reached in this study is that in order for the substation power transformer failures on the Eskom distribution network in Limpopo to decrease, the methods that can alleviate the problem include: installation of an online monitoring system on the power transformers; improvement of the maintenance schedule; installation of a backup transformers in single transformer substations; improvement of the security measures in substations that are located in remote areas; putting asset replacement plans in place for transformers that are approaching their...
- Full Text:
Predictive maintenance as a means to increase the availability of positive displacement pumps at Ekurhuleni Base Metals
- Authors: Kau, Motlalepula Lawrence
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Industrial equipment - Maintenance and repair , Pumping machinery - Maintenance and repair , Plant maintenance - Management , Total productive maintenance
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/233738 , uj:23870
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: Condition monitoring is a maintenance technique used to monitor parameters like vibration, overheating, overcurrent of the system or machinery at an early stage of failure; to forecast on the need for maintenance before a catastrophic failure; or to estimate system conditions. It can be achieved through visual inspection or the use of a sophisticated intelligent diagnosis system. Predictive maintenance helps the organisation to predict failure before a catastrophic failure. It is a technique to help the user plan the job that needs to be done on the equipment to prevent an unexpected failure. This technique is central to our research question. This study investigated whether predictive maintenance is the best maintenance strategy to minimise maintenance costs. In predictive maintenance, decisions are made based on the data collected through condition monitoring. Condition monitoring has three steps: data acquisition, data processing and maintenance decision-making. Condition monitoring helps to prevent equipment failure. It also helps to avoid unplanned breakdowns and to optimise maintenance resources by planning maintenance or shutdown as required based on the data collected. Peristaltic pumps, such as LPPT 65 (DN65), are commonly used for pumping slurry. Ekurhuleni Base Metals uses it to pump slurry. Due to several failures, the pumps are not operating at their peak efficiency point. Before the implementation of predictive maintenance, the pumps did not receive regular maintenance. In the past, the organisation did reactive maintenance, and maintenance costs were escalating. Root Cause Failure Analysis (RCFA) helps to understand the root cause of equipment failure, and is commonly used to reduce costs, mean time to failure (MTTF) and mean down time (MDT). If implemented successfully, the organisation benefits significantly in terms of cost savings and/or total elimination of failure. Organisations benefit considerably from implementing Reliability Centred Maintenance (RCM). It aims to identify routine maintenance that preserves the system in such a way that costs are acceptable. If preventive maintenance costs are higher than those of operational losses and repair, maintenance will not be beneficial, unless it relates to regulatory, safety or environmental requirements...
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- Authors: Kau, Motlalepula Lawrence
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Industrial equipment - Maintenance and repair , Pumping machinery - Maintenance and repair , Plant maintenance - Management , Total productive maintenance
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/233738 , uj:23870
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: Condition monitoring is a maintenance technique used to monitor parameters like vibration, overheating, overcurrent of the system or machinery at an early stage of failure; to forecast on the need for maintenance before a catastrophic failure; or to estimate system conditions. It can be achieved through visual inspection or the use of a sophisticated intelligent diagnosis system. Predictive maintenance helps the organisation to predict failure before a catastrophic failure. It is a technique to help the user plan the job that needs to be done on the equipment to prevent an unexpected failure. This technique is central to our research question. This study investigated whether predictive maintenance is the best maintenance strategy to minimise maintenance costs. In predictive maintenance, decisions are made based on the data collected through condition monitoring. Condition monitoring has three steps: data acquisition, data processing and maintenance decision-making. Condition monitoring helps to prevent equipment failure. It also helps to avoid unplanned breakdowns and to optimise maintenance resources by planning maintenance or shutdown as required based on the data collected. Peristaltic pumps, such as LPPT 65 (DN65), are commonly used for pumping slurry. Ekurhuleni Base Metals uses it to pump slurry. Due to several failures, the pumps are not operating at their peak efficiency point. Before the implementation of predictive maintenance, the pumps did not receive regular maintenance. In the past, the organisation did reactive maintenance, and maintenance costs were escalating. Root Cause Failure Analysis (RCFA) helps to understand the root cause of equipment failure, and is commonly used to reduce costs, mean time to failure (MTTF) and mean down time (MDT). If implemented successfully, the organisation benefits significantly in terms of cost savings and/or total elimination of failure. Organisations benefit considerably from implementing Reliability Centred Maintenance (RCM). It aims to identify routine maintenance that preserves the system in such a way that costs are acceptable. If preventive maintenance costs are higher than those of operational losses and repair, maintenance will not be beneficial, unless it relates to regulatory, safety or environmental requirements...
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Project portfolio management : managing uncertainty in dynamic environments
- Authors: Hlophe, Ntebaleng Patience
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Project management , Project management - Case studies , Strategic planning , Portfolio management - Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/233792 , uj:23877
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: Currently, many project dependent companies are facing a number of problems such as too many active projects, not enough resources to complete the projects and lack of ability to deal with changes in the project environments. These problems will lead to failure in the company’s ability to fulfil its mandate and execute their strategic imperatives. These problems were identified to lead to numerous complications that may threaten the company’s business. The question that was asked was how can organisations use proper project portfolio management to deal with uncertainties in their environments. Hence, the purpose of this dissertation is to investigate the ability of project portfolio management in handling uncertainty, and the extent to which project portfolio management is used to circumvent the effects of uncertainty on the projects. To this end, two project-driven companies were investigated. The choice of company was made by looking at the availability of information and the company structures. The author had access to resources within the company. It was found that there is an unclear understanding on the role of project portfolio management in both companies. One company claimed to have a fully functioning project portfolio management department, while the other is still in its infancy in this regard....
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- Authors: Hlophe, Ntebaleng Patience
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Project management , Project management - Case studies , Strategic planning , Portfolio management - Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/233792 , uj:23877
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: Currently, many project dependent companies are facing a number of problems such as too many active projects, not enough resources to complete the projects and lack of ability to deal with changes in the project environments. These problems will lead to failure in the company’s ability to fulfil its mandate and execute their strategic imperatives. These problems were identified to lead to numerous complications that may threaten the company’s business. The question that was asked was how can organisations use proper project portfolio management to deal with uncertainties in their environments. Hence, the purpose of this dissertation is to investigate the ability of project portfolio management in handling uncertainty, and the extent to which project portfolio management is used to circumvent the effects of uncertainty on the projects. To this end, two project-driven companies were investigated. The choice of company was made by looking at the availability of information and the company structures. The author had access to resources within the company. It was found that there is an unclear understanding on the role of project portfolio management in both companies. One company claimed to have a fully functioning project portfolio management department, while the other is still in its infancy in this regard....
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The influence of outsourcing on facilities divisions : the effect on infrastructure at the Universities of Witwatersrand and Johannesburg
- Khumalo, Themba Muzikayifani
- Authors: Khumalo, Themba Muzikayifani
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: University of the Witwatersrand , University of Johannesburg , Universities and colleges - Services for - Contracting out , Contracting out - Case studies , Education, Higher - South Africa - Gauteng - Facilities - Planning , Facility management - South Africa - Gauteng - Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/233820 , uj:23882
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: Please refer to full text to view abstract
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- Authors: Khumalo, Themba Muzikayifani
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: University of the Witwatersrand , University of Johannesburg , Universities and colleges - Services for - Contracting out , Contracting out - Case studies , Education, Higher - South Africa - Gauteng - Facilities - Planning , Facility management - South Africa - Gauteng - Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/233820 , uj:23882
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: Please refer to full text to view abstract
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Factors that cause engine failuire on diesel locomotives
- Authors: Mayoyo, Aobakwe Reginald
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Diesel locomotives - South Africa - Maintenance and repair , Diesel locomotives - South Africa - Reliability , Railroads - Dieselization - South Africa , Reliability (Engineering) , Transnet (Firm : South Africa)
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/213045 , uj:21071
- Description: Abstract: The aim of the research is to find the factors that cause engine failures in diesel locomotives within Transnet. The research will focus on the diesel locomotives in the region of Thabazimbi and Pretoria. Diesel locomotives need to be in good working order for them to be able to haul goods for the growth of the economy. The company must deliver everything on time according to customer demand. The failures affect the company financially: they have to repair the engine, which costs about R1.2 million to rebuild, and a new engine costs R 3.2 million. Corrective actions play an important role in coal transportation. Reliable engineering and maintenance ensures that the product is always available. Reliability is known as the probability that an item or device can perform the required functions without failures for a specific period of time. Maintenance and reliability engineers should know all the techniques to solve engineering issues. The research shows that the company had the same problem as China and Ukraine. The failures were caused by maintenance that was not done properly on the diesel locomotive. The company has a maintenance strategy that they used on the diesel locomotive. It was found that the major cause of engine failures was using the wrong type of cylinders on the 39 200 class diesel locomotive. The 39 200 class uses millmille cylinders, not chrome cylinders. These cylinders differ from the usual material used to make cylinders. It was found that most artisans and the logistics department did not know which cylinders were supposed to be used on the 39 200 class diesel locomotive. The locomotives were newly built in South Africa, but not all the artisans, planners and trade hands were aware of the different cylinders used on the locomotive. The reliability and maintenance engineers, including the logistics department, have to work together in purchasing new material by making sure the specifications are clear to the supplier. The company had to do root cause analyses because they wanted to be competitive in the railway industry. The company should increase resources in the Thabazimbi depot to avoid locomotives having to be hauled to Koedoespoort owing to the insufficient number of artisans and trade hands they have at Thabazimbi. The workshop in Thabazimbi should do all the lifting work required on the locomotive, change radiators, change out compressors and change out cylinders. , M.Ing. (Engineering Management)
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- Authors: Mayoyo, Aobakwe Reginald
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Diesel locomotives - South Africa - Maintenance and repair , Diesel locomotives - South Africa - Reliability , Railroads - Dieselization - South Africa , Reliability (Engineering) , Transnet (Firm : South Africa)
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/213045 , uj:21071
- Description: Abstract: The aim of the research is to find the factors that cause engine failures in diesel locomotives within Transnet. The research will focus on the diesel locomotives in the region of Thabazimbi and Pretoria. Diesel locomotives need to be in good working order for them to be able to haul goods for the growth of the economy. The company must deliver everything on time according to customer demand. The failures affect the company financially: they have to repair the engine, which costs about R1.2 million to rebuild, and a new engine costs R 3.2 million. Corrective actions play an important role in coal transportation. Reliable engineering and maintenance ensures that the product is always available. Reliability is known as the probability that an item or device can perform the required functions without failures for a specific period of time. Maintenance and reliability engineers should know all the techniques to solve engineering issues. The research shows that the company had the same problem as China and Ukraine. The failures were caused by maintenance that was not done properly on the diesel locomotive. The company has a maintenance strategy that they used on the diesel locomotive. It was found that the major cause of engine failures was using the wrong type of cylinders on the 39 200 class diesel locomotive. The 39 200 class uses millmille cylinders, not chrome cylinders. These cylinders differ from the usual material used to make cylinders. It was found that most artisans and the logistics department did not know which cylinders were supposed to be used on the 39 200 class diesel locomotive. The locomotives were newly built in South Africa, but not all the artisans, planners and trade hands were aware of the different cylinders used on the locomotive. The reliability and maintenance engineers, including the logistics department, have to work together in purchasing new material by making sure the specifications are clear to the supplier. The company had to do root cause analyses because they wanted to be competitive in the railway industry. The company should increase resources in the Thabazimbi depot to avoid locomotives having to be hauled to Koedoespoort owing to the insufficient number of artisans and trade hands they have at Thabazimbi. The workshop in Thabazimbi should do all the lifting work required on the locomotive, change radiators, change out compressors and change out cylinders. , M.Ing. (Engineering Management)
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