What are the two main types of maintenance identified in the 3-M system?

The two main types of maintenance identified in the 3-M system are corrective maintenance and preventive maintenance. Corrective maintenance refers to actions taken to restore a system or equipment to its operational condition after it has failed. This type of maintenance is reactive since it occurs only after an issue has been detected, focusing on fixing problems as they arise.

Preventive maintenance, on the other hand, encompasses proactive measures taken to prevent equipment failures before they occur. This includes routine checks, planned inspections, and maintenance tasks aimed at prolonging the life of equipment and minimizing unexpected breakdowns. These actions are scheduled based on time intervals or usage metrics to ensure reliability and operational readiness.

In the context of the Navy’s 3-M system, understanding and utilizing both types of maintenance are crucial for maintaining operational schedules and readiness, ultimately enhancing fleet reliability. This comprehensive approach ensures that equipment is not only maintained when issues occur but also protected against potential failures through systematic preventive measures.