A case study of total productive maintenance implementation at precision tube mills

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to investigate the contributions of successful total productive maintenance (TPM) initiatives to competitive manufacturing. It also seeks to critically examine the implications of strategic TPM implementation initiatives in an Indian manufacturing organisation. Design/methodology/approach - The study is carried out at a precision tube mill that has successfully implemented TPM and has reaped significant benefits as a result of TPM implementation, to study the TPM implementation issues and achievements realised as a result of strategic TPM implementation. The approach is directed towards the justification of TPM implementation for its support to competitive manufacturing in Indian industries. Findings - The study reveals the exploits of Indian entrepreneurs with TPM practices and highlights the contributions of TPM in realising the overall organisational goals and objectives. The study reveals that strategic TPM initiatives can significantly contribute towards the improvement of manufacturing performance in the organisation, leading to the realisation of core competencies for meeting global challenges. Research limitations/implications - The study is conducted to develop an understanding of contributions of TPM initiatives towards building manufacturing competencies in Indian manufacturing industry. The present study endeavours to investigate the effect of an aggressive TPM implementation plan for strategically meeting global challenges and competition. Practical implications - The study highlights the contributions of strategic TPM initiatives to organisational performance and highlights the need for the successful management of TPM programmes for establishing sustained maintenance improvement initiatives. Originality/value - The study highlights the contributions made by holistic TPM implementation at a precision tube mills in an Indian manufacturing enterprise.