More than ever before it is imperative for electric utilities to maximize the lives of existing systems. A full life cycle management process includes quantification of customer and shareholder expectations, a business assessment of alternatives and the maintenance and continuous assessment of plant conditions.

To minimize the cost of existing plants over their life spans, optimal equipment/material selection and life cycle management has to be applied. Current trends utilize existing equipment at ever-higher capacity levels, in some cases exceeding nameplate or accepted equipment ratings, in order to defer the capital investment in new facilities or in the refurbishment of existing facilities. Utility planners require advanced techniques to assess the risks and benefits associated with these actions.

An in-depth understanding of the problems associated with distribution assets will provide utility operations and maintenance personnel with the necessary tools to precisely evaluate the state of the plant and suggest an appropriate course of action.

Topics and Issues:
• Evaluation of Plant Condition
• Prediction of Remaining Life
• Development of Action Plans for Life Cycle Asset Management
• Preventive and Predictive Maintenance
• Recycling, Re-use or Disposal Costs