[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” module_class=”fpb0 table_of_content_sec” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” module_class=”fpt0 fpb0″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”_initial” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_code _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_code][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row module_class=”fpb0″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”_initial” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”2″ module_id=”sectionscrollid2″ module_class=”checkmrk_list anchor_link_class ” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Machine availability and plant availability are key performance indicators for any manufacturing industry. They measure how long a machine or plant is actually available – and thus how efficiently your production is running. Companies that systematically measure and improve their availability reduce unplanned downtime, lower costs, and strengthen their competitiveness. This article explains the basics, methods, and tools – and you\u2019ll also learn how our tepcon instructor<\/a> can help you optimize your operations.<\/p>\n Are you looking for the right digital tool to optimize equipment availability in your company?<\/p>\n Contact us<\/a> – we\u2019ll listen and find the right solution for your needs.<\/p>\n Machine availability describes the percentage of time during which a machine is actually available for productive use – measured against the planned production time. The formula is:<\/p>\n Machine availability = (Planned production time \u2013 Downtime) \/ Planned production time \u00d7 100%<\/strong><\/p>\n Let\u2019s look at a calculation using a concrete example. If a machine is idle for 1.5 hours out of 8 planned hours due to malfunctions, maintenance, or setup, the result is 81.25% – a solid figure, but one that can be improved with specific measures.[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”_initial” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/tepcon.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Workflow-Optimierung-bei-ystral-foto.jpg” alt=”Definition Anlagenverf\u00fcgbarkeit und Maschinenverf\u00fcgbarkeit” module_class=”img__radius” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row module_class=”fpt0″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”_initial” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”2″ module_id=”sectionscrollid2″ module_class=”checkmrk_list anchor_link_class ” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Machine availability refers to a single machine: It measures how long the machine is operational during a defined period. Technical malfunctions, maintenance, or setup times reduce the operating time and thus the availability value.<\/p>\n Plant availability, on the other hand, considers entire production lines or interlinked systems. If a single machine fails, it affects the availability of the entire process – even if all other machines and systems are running flawlessly.<\/p>\n However, the terms \u201cplant availability\u201d and \u201cmachine availability\u201d are sometimes used interchangeably.<\/p>\n In this context, a distinction is often made between technical availability and operational availability. Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) goes a step further and combines availability with performance and quality into a single process-oriented metric.<\/p>\n Any unplanned downtime costs not only production time but also money: labor costs continue to accrue, orders are delayed, and the ROI on the machine investment declines. High availability ensures that production runs smoothly, delivery deadlines are met, and capacity planning works out as intended. Optimizing machine availability is one of the greatest areas for improvement in many companies.[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Common_CTA” module_class=”wissen_cta_section” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” use_background_color_gradient=”on” background_color_gradient_direction=”90deg” background_color_gradient_stops=”#2c333a 0%|#2c333a 52%|#532d3b 75%|#b61f3f 100%” background_image=”https:\/\/tepcon.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/bg-element-3.svg” background_position=”top_center” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_3,1_3″ module_class=”vam_a980″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text module_class=”h2_class white_text anchor_link_class” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_button button_url=”https:\/\/login.instructor.de\/trial” url_new_window=”on” button_text=”14-Day Trial” button_alignment=”right” module_class=”secondary_btn” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ module_class=” ” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row module_class=”checkmrk_list anchor_link_class fpb0″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”_initial” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ module_class=”pb0″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”12″ module_id=”sectionscrollid16″ module_class=”anchor_link_class pb0″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Consistently improving machine availability in production pays off on several levels:<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ module_class=”mb1rem” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row module_class=”checkmrk_list anchor_link_class fpb0″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”_initial” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”12″ module_id=”sectionscrollid16″ module_class=”anchor_link_class fpb0″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Setup times, technical malfunctions, and organizational downtime often account for 40 to 70% of all availability losses. An overview of the most common causes:[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row module_class=” fpb0″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”_initial” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”12″ module_id=”sectionscrollid16″ module_class=”anchor_link_class ” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Sudden breakdowns don\u2019t just stop the affected machine – in the case of interlinked production lines, they can bring entire sections or even the entire production process to a standstill. Recurring malfunctions in specific components usually indicate inadequate maintenance.[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row module_class=” fpb0″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”_initial” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”12″ module_id=”sectionscrollid16″ module_class=”anchor_link_class ” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Long setup times directly reduce planned production time and, consequently, the availability rate. Setup is a key area for optimization, especially when there is a high degree of product variety.[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row module_class=”fpb0″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”_initial” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”12″ module_id=”sectionscrollid16″ module_class=”anchor_link_class ” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Missing materials, unclarified orders, or information gaps on the shop floor can shut down machines and equipment for just as long as a technical defect – yet they are often underestimated.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row module_class=”fpb0″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”_initial” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”12″ module_id=”sectionscrollid16″ module_class=”anchor_link_class ” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n When the quality of maintenance and setup processes depends on individual key personnel and knowledge<\/a> is not readily accessible, personnel changes lead to fluctuations in quality and longer downtime – at the expense of speed and equipment availability.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row module_class=”checkmrk_list anchor_link_class fpb0″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”_initial” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/tepcon.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/2025-EMO-MX-Value-Award-Gruppenbild.jpg” alt=”Methoden der Anlagen- und Maschinenverf\u00fcgbarkeit” module_class=”img__radius” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”_initial” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”12″ module_id=”sectionscrollid16″ module_class=”anchor_link_class ” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_accordion admin_label=”Accordion” module_class=”custom_accrodian_toggle ” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” toggle_level=”h4″ locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_accordion_item title=”Preventive Maintenance: Taking Precautions Instead of Reacting” open=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” toggle_level=”h4″]Implementing preventive maintenance<\/a> is one of the most effective ways to avoid unplanned machine downtime. Maintenance is performed at defined intervals, which increases uptime and reduces the frequency of malfunctions.[\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=”TPM \u2013 Total Productive Maintenance” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” toggle_level=”h4″ open=”off”]TPM is a holistic approach that involves machine operators in daily maintenance and minor repairs. Regular visual inspections and simple maintenance tasks performed by the operating staff prevent many breakdowns before they occur.[\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=”Predictive Maintenance: The Next Level of Maintenance” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” toggle_level=”h4″ open=”off”]Predictive maintenance uses sensor data and algorithms to predict wear and impending failures. The automatic collection of all data enables a more precise analysis of downtime and, in many cases, leads to a significant improvement in machine or plant availability.[\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=”SMED \u2013 Systematically Reducing Setup Times” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” open=”off”]The SMED method aims to drastically reduce setup and format changeover times. By consistently shifting setup steps from internal to external processes and standardizing procedures, setup times can often be reduced by 50% or more.[\/et_pb_accordion_item][\/et_pb_accordion][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row module_class=”checkmrk_list anchor_link_class fpb0 ” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”_initial” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”12″ module_id=”sectionscrollid16″ module_class=”anchor_link_class ” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) measures the productivity of machines and equipment based on three factors: availability, performance, and quality.[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row module_class=”checkmrk_list anchor_link_class ” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”_initial” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”12″ module_id=”sectionscrollid16″ module_class=”anchor_link_class ” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n A machine with 90% availability, 85% performance, and 95% quality achieves an OEE of 72.7%. The availability factor measures the actual production time used; performance measures the production speed relative to the target performance; and the quality factor measures the percentage of defect-free parts.<\/p>\n Calculation of the OEE value:<\/p>\n This means that, taking all losses into account, the equipment operates at an overall efficiency of approximately 73%.[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Common_CTA” module_class=”wissen_cta_section” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” use_background_color_gradient=”on” background_color_gradient_direction=”90deg” background_color_gradient_stops=”#2c333a 0%|#2c333a 52%|#532d3b 75%|#b61f3f 100%” background_image=”https:\/\/tepcon.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/bg-element-3.svg” background_position=”top_center” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_3,1_3″ module_class=”vam_a980″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”_initial” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text module_class=”h2_class white_text anchor_link_class” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_button button_url=”https:\/\/login.instructor.de\/trial” url_new_window=”on” button_text=”14-Day Trial” button_alignment=”right” module_class=”secondary_btn” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row admin_label=”Row” module_class=” fpb0 fmb0″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”_initial” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”12″ module_id=”sectionscrollid16″ module_class=”anchor_link_class fmb0″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n An OEE score of 80% or higher is considered very good in discrete manufacturing. Scores below 40% indicate a significant need for improvement. In practice, when companies measure their Overall Equipment Effectiveness for the first time, their scores are often significantly lower than they would have expected.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”Row” module_class=”fpb0 fmb0″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”_initial” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”12″ module_id=”sectionscrollid16″ module_class=”anchor_link_class fmb0″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n An OEE score of 80% or higher is considered very good in discrete manufacturing. Scores below 40% indicate a significant need for improvement. In practice, when companies measure their Overall Equipment Effectiveness for the first time, their scores are often significantly lower than they would have expected.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”Row” module_class=”fpb0 fmb0″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”_initial” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”12″ module_id=”sectionscrollid16″ module_class=”anchor_link_class fmb0″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n While technical availability measures only a machine\u2019s operational readiness, OEE also takes performance and quality into account. Companies that focus solely on technical availability may overlook significant losses in other areas.[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”Row” module_class=”fpb0 fmb0″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”_initial” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”12″ module_id=”sectionscrollid16″ module_class=”anchor_link_class fmb0″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Digitalization is fundamentally changing how we manage machine and plant availability. Today, networked sensors, MES systems, and cloud-based analytics tools enable the continuous, automatic collection of all relevant machine data – in real time and with significantly greater precision than any manual data collection method. Modern technologies such as IoT sensors automatically detect downtime, optimize maintenance intervals based on data, and provide the foundation for predictive maintenance strategies in maintenance and repair. Companies that take this step gain a robust data foundation for the continuous optimization of their production processes – and a genuine competitive advantage.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row module_class=”checkmrk_list anchor_link_class fpb0″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”_initial” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/tepcon.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/fachkraeftemangel-img.jpg” alt=”Der tepcon instructor als Werkzeug f\u00fcr die optimierte Anlagen- und Maschinenverf\u00fcgbarkeit” module_class=”img__radius” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ module_class=”mb1rem” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row module_class=”checkmrk_list anchor_link_class fpb0″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”_initial” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”12″ module_id=”sectionscrollid16″ module_class=”anchor_link_class fpb0″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n At tepcon, we have developed the instructor, a digital tool that addresses several key factors<\/a> affecting machine and plant availability – from maintenance documentation to fault reporting.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row module_class=” fpb0″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”_initial” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”12″ module_id=”sectionscrollid16″ module_class=”anchor_link_class ” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n With the tepcon instructor, you can create digital step-by-step maintenance instructions<\/a> that are available to your technicians at any time – even offline. Marker images, videos, and 3D content make complex maintenance steps easy to understand and reliably reduce errors.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row module_class=” fpb0″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”_initial” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”12″ module_id=”sectionscrollid16″ module_class=”anchor_link_class ” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Maintenance tasks can be planned, assigned, and monitored in a structured manner. Every task completion is automatically logged, and every inspection step is documented in a traceable manner. This transforms reactive maintenance into a predictable, preventive maintenance strategy – with a direct impact on downtime.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row module_class=”fpb0″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”_initial” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”12″ module_id=”sectionscrollid16″ module_class=”anchor_link_class ” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n If a malfunction occurs, operators can log it immediately and notify the appropriate staff. All actions are documented until the problem is resolved. This reduces downtime and provides valuable data for analyzing recurring failures.[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row module_class=”fpb0″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”_initial” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”12″ module_id=”sectionscrollid16″ module_class=”anchor_link_class ” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n In the event of a malfunction, the tepcon instructor guides your employees step by step through the troubleshooting process and subsequent resolution. Clear procedures and visual aids enable rapid, structured problem-solving right at the machine. This minimizes downtime – because while malfunctions cannot be avoided, their resolution can be specifically accelerated.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row module_class=”fpb0″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”_initial” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”12″ module_id=”sectionscrollid16″ module_class=”anchor_link_class ” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n The instructor digitally maps setup processes according to SMED logic: standardized, with associated media and integrated checkpoints. Frequently used steps can be saved as building blocks and reused in various instructions – an efficient solution even for large machine fleets.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row module_class=”fpb0″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”_initial” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”12″ module_id=”sectionscrollid16″ module_class=”anchor_link_class ” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n The analytics function provides transparent insights into process quality and optimization potential. Through GraphQL and REST interfaces, the instructor can be seamlessly integrated into existing ERP, MES, or CMMS systems – ensuring a consistent data foundation from maintenance planning through analysis.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row module_class=”fpb0″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”_initial” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”12″ module_id=”sectionscrollid16″ module_class=”anchor_link_class ” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Would you like to systematically improve your machine availability? Do you have a question about the specific benefits the instructor can offer you in practice? Contact us – we\u2019ll show you in a no-obligation initial consultation<\/a> how the instructor can be used in your production environment.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ module_class=”column_width_auto fpb0″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”_initial” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_button button_url=”https:\/\/login.instructor.de\/trial” url_new_window=”on” button_text=”Try it for free now” module_class=”primary_btn” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_button button_url=”\/en\/contact\/” button_text=”Get in touch” module_class=”primary_btn” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Common_CTA” module_class=”wissen_cta_section mb1rem” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” use_background_color_gradient=”on” background_color_gradient_direction=”90deg” background_color_gradient_stops=”#2c333a 0%|#2c333a 52%|#532d3b 75%|#b61f3f 100%” background_image=”https:\/\/tepcon.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/bg-element-3.svg” background_position=”top_center” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_3,1_3″ module_class=”vam_a980″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”_initial” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text module_class=”h2_class white_text anchor_link_class” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_button button_url=”https:\/\/login.instructor.de\/trial” url_new_window=”on” button_text=”14-Day Trial” button_alignment=”right” module_class=”secondary_btn” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ module_class=”faq_section” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”_initial” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”12″ module_id=”sectionscrollid16″ module_class=”anchor_link_class ” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_accordion module_class=”custom_accrodian_toggle” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” toggle_level=”h4″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_accordion_item title=”What is system availability?” open=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” toggle_level=”h4″]Equipment availability indicates what percentage of a piece of equipment\u2019s scheduled operating time can actually be used for production. It takes all downtime into account and\u2014unlike machine availability – refers to entire systems or production lines.[\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=”What is the difference between machine availability and OEE?” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” toggle_level=”h4″ open=”off”]Machine availability is one component of OEE. While it merely measures whether the machine was running, OEE also evaluates capacity utilization and the quality of the parts produced – making it a more comprehensive metric.[\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=”What OEE values are considered good?” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” toggle_level=”h4″ open=”off”]An OEE of 80% or higher is considered very good in discrete manufacturing. OEE values below 40% indicate significant problems and frequent equipment failures, and require a systematic analysis of the sources of loss.[\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=”What factors affect machine availability?” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” toggle_level=”h4″ open=”off”]Technical malfunctions, setup times, scheduled maintenance, and organizational downtime. Together, these factors account for 40 to 70 percent of all availability losses in many production environments.[\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=”How can the tepcon instructor improve machine availability?” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” toggle_level=”h4″ open=”off”]The instructor improves machine availability and reduces downtime through standardized maintenance instructions, comprehensive documentation, structured job planning, rapid fault reporting via a ticket system, and digital setup instructions for faster format changes.[\/et_pb_accordion_item][\/et_pb_accordion][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Process documentation describes and structures workflows, creates transparency, reduces errors, and improves processes.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":62640,"template":"","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","content-type":""},"wissen_kategorie":[25],"class_list":["post-63797","wissen","type-wissen","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","wissen_kategorie-alle"],"yoast_head":"\nWhat is machine availability – and why is it so crucial?<\/h3>\n
Definition of Plant Availability and Machine Availability<\/h2>\n
Why Companies Need to Focus on Plant and Machine Availability<\/h2>\n
In a hurry? Click here to go directly to our product<\/a>, the tepcon instructor!<\/h4>\n
Benefits at a Glance<\/h2>\n
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Challenges and Obstacles: What Can Stand in the Way of Perfect Availability<\/h2>\n
Technical Malfunctions and Unplanned Downtime<\/h4>\n
Setup Times and Format Changes<\/h4>\n
Organizational Downtime<\/h4>\n
Knowledge Dependency and Lack of Standardization<\/h4>\n
Methods for Ensuring Plant and Machine Availability<\/h2>\n
Overall Equipment Effectiveness: An Overview of the Key Metric<\/h2>\n
How is the overall OEE calculated?<\/h4>\n
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Looking at the aforementioned knowledge management methods, it becomes clear that: Digital guides<\/a> are, in principle, more scalable and can also be accessed anytime, anywhere.<\/h4>\n
When is an OEE score considered good?<\/h4>\n
When is an OEE score considered good?<\/h4>\n
The Difference Between OEE and Technical Availability<\/h4>\n
Availability in the Age of Industry 4.0<\/h2>\n
The tepcon instructor: A Tool for Optimizing Plant and Machine Availability<\/h2>\n
Standardized maintenance instructions for consistent maintenance<\/h4>\n
Digital Checklists, Work Orders, and Inspection Instructions<\/h4>\n
The Ticket System: Responding Faster to Malfunctions<\/h4>\n
Guided Troubleshooting and Rapid Problem Resolution<\/h4>\n
Setup Instructions and Building Blocks for Faster Format Changes<\/h4>\n
Analytics and Interfaces for Data-Driven Optimization<\/h4>\n
Take the first step now<\/h4>\n
Take advantage of this experience and let us explain how the tepcon instructor can support your knowledge management efficiently and sustainably. We look forward to your inquiry<\/a>!<\/h4>\n
FAQ on Machine and Equipment Availability<\/h2>\n