Ultrasound World VI (2010)

Ultrasound World VI Program Abstracts

Abstract:  Ultrasound predictive maintenance is a cost effective approach to preventing unplanned downtime and improving equipment efficiencies.  This paper will describe how Panama Ports used ultrasound technology as part of a predictive maintenance program that has resulted in many thousands of dollars in savings on equipment, stocking of parts, improved efficiencies, extended life expectancy and asset availability.  It also describes how Caucedo DP World Ports (Rep. Dominicana) uses Ultrasound Technology for bearing fault analysis and trending.   

Bio:  Ernesto Alonso Gayle Francis, Director, Primus Predictive, S.A. (Panama) 
Ernesto has thirteen years experience as harbor specialist for cranes and equipment along with other operational activities related to engineering and maintenance.  Previously he had worked in the aeronautical industry for two years.  As a harbor specialist he has worked as a crane operator for Porticas in the Port of Manzanillo Int'l Terminal and then as an electro-mechanical technician (Crane Man).  In 2000 he was shift supervisor for the department of engineering for the Port of Panama Ports Company.  In 2005 Ernesto was promoted to Predictive Maintenance Supervisor for the Ports of Balboa an Cristobal.  He has been challenged with the responsibility of reducing equipment failures and reducing cost.  To achieve this Ernesto has incorporated Ultrasound technology into his PdM program.  In 2009 he promoted to Chief of Engineering Department at the Port of Balboa.  Actually Ernesto is the Director Leader of Primus Predictive, S.A. in Panama, company dedicate to service of Predictive Maintenance in different Industry and Ports.  Ernesto has certificates in both pulse-echo and airborne/structure borne ultrasound as per ANSI7ASNT CP-189, ASNT SNT-TC-IA, 1996, ASTME 1002-96, UEQ-TC-IA, 1997.  He is also certified Level I in infrared and oil analysis I,II.

Ernesto has presented at professional conferences in Latin America on topics such as lubrication, world-class maintenance practices and at the Ultrasound World IV Top Gun Conference 2008.