Evaluating the Effect of Implementing Preventive Maintenance Systems on Productivity and Operational Efficiency in a Plant (Case Study: Lordegan Petrochemical)

Abstract

The maintenance and repair process is one of the most vital processes in manufacturing organizations, with its primary task being the maintenance and preservation of production machinery in optimal conditions or returning them from conditions that hinder the production of a quality product to optimal operational conditions. This study examined the impact of the relationship between Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) and plant operational processes, with the mediating role of Total Quality Management (TQM) in the Lordegan Petrochemical Complex. The research method is quantitative and survey-based. The sample size, determined using Cochran's formula, consisted of 202 employees from the Lordegan Petrochemical Complex, and data collection was conducted via a questionnaire. Experts and specialists confirmed the validity of the questionnaire, including its convergent and content validity. Reliability coefficients for the variables of TPM, operational processes, and TQM were found to be 0.873, 0.881, and 0.859, respectively, indicating high reliability. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS 26, and inferential analysis of the research variables was performed through Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). The study's findings indicated that implementing TPM has a positive impact on improving operational processes and enhancing quality management in petrochemical industries. This impact is reinforced through reducing breakdowns, increasing productivity, and fostering a sense of responsibility among employees. Additionally, the mediating role of TQM in strengthening these effects has been confirmed.