Predictive maintenance refers to the proactive maintenance of technical systems based on condition data and intelligent analyses. The goal is to prevent unplanned downtime while simultaneously optimizing maintenance intervals.

In contrast to time-based maintenance, maintenance measures are performed only when actual signs of wear or risks of failure are detected. This is based on continuously collected operational data and its analysis.

Typical data sources include sensors for vibrations, temperatures, energy consumption, or process parameters. Predictive maintenance reduces unplanned downtime, lowers maintenance costs, and increases the availability of critical equipment.

In automated laboratories, predictive maintenance helps ensure consistently high analysis quality and process reliability.