Operational Maintenance (MRO) of Electronic Systems
A Strategic Pillar for the Performance and Sustainability of Embedded Systems
In demanding sectors such as Defense, Railway, or Renewable Energy, electronic control-command and communication systems must operate efficiently over several decades. Operational Maintenance (MRO) has thus become a crucial lever to ensure their availability, reliability, and longevity throughout their lifecycle, often exceeding 30 years.
MRO is a key process in managing embedded, industrial, or critical electronic systems. It includes all preventive and corrective actions aimed at ensuring optimal operational continuity while controlling operating costs.
1. The Challenges and Objectives of MRO
MRO encompasses all operations required to keep equipment in optimal working condition. Its objectives are multiple:
Ensure equipment availability by reducing downtime and extending lifespan;
Improve reliability through targeted predictive, preventive, and corrective maintenance;
Control costs by avoiding heavy repairs and optimizing Total Cost of Ownership (TCO);
Secure operations by ensuring systems comply with safety, reliability, and cybersecurity standards.
2. LEROY Automation’s MRO Approach
At LEROY Automation, MrO is integrated from the design stage and aligns with a long-term support strategy. LEROY ensures the tracking, evolution, and compatibility of its solutions to support operators sustainably.
Concrete example: the LT160 automation range
Launched over 25 years ago, the LT160 range (PLC + I/O modules) has undergone rigorous follow-up, including obsolescence management and tech updates.
It has gradually transitioned to the LT200 platform, while ensuring upward compatibility, especially with I/O modules.
The original software (based on ISaGRAF and OPAL32) evolved into a modern and long-lasting platform, the IEC 61131-3 STRATON PLC, dedicated to the LT200.
The TES I/O terminals have followed this same transition logic to work with LT200 PLCs.
3. A Comprehensive MRO Service Offering
LEROY Automation provides a tailored set of services to support its clients in their MRO strategies:
BOM analysis and management to anticipate obsolescence;
Proactive monitoring of critical electronic and mechanical components;
Secure storage of sensitive components, with Last-Time Buy Order (LTBO) management;
Partial or full electronic design, including Fit-Form-Function (FFF) redesign;
Industrialization and qualification of boards and electronic products with AGÔN Electronics Group;
Electronic board repairs, both proprietary and third-party, in a qualified center;
Component expertise through our partner TAME COMPONENTS;
Functional testing and validation via TAME TEST.
4. Knowledge Retention and Skills Transfer
MRO isn’t just about products – it’s also about preserving internal know-how and resources:
Skill capitalization across multiple product generations;
Evolving technical documentation, managed via PLM and CMMS tools;
Ongoing training of maintenance teams, delivered by expert instructors.
A Long-Term Commitment
MRO is a strategic issue for the overall performance of critical systems. Through a structured and long-term approach, LEROY Automation supports its clients in efficiently managing the lifecycle of their equipment. The goal: maximize availability, minimize total cost of ownership, and ensure continuous operations for decades.