Reliability Assumptions

Abstract

Carl and Fred discussing the broad subject of assumptions, and how they impact reliability analysis and applications. When are assumptions good and when are they questionable?

Key Points

Join Carl and Fred as they discuss how to evaluate the efficacy of assumptions that are used in reliability programs or analyses.

Topics include:

• What assumptions should we be wary of?
• How do we know if assumptions are valid or not?
• What are some of the common assumptions that can derail a reliability program or give wrong information?
• What assumptions tend to work in which circumstances?
• The first step (and it is not always easy), is being aware when assumptions are being made.
• Assumptions are often being made glibly or haphazardly.
• Too often, assumptions are not examined or even known.
• Consider the circumstances that affect when an assumption is OK or not OK.
• Beware of “blanket” assumptions. What evidence do you have?
• Challenge your assumptions, and those of others. Ask “why.”
• Document the assumptions that go into an FMEA or a reliability analysis.
• When is Exponential Distribution valid or not?
• What about different environments, does that change the assumptions?
• Assumptions related to failure mechanisms.

Enjoy an episode of Speaking of Reliability. Where you can join friends as they discuss reliability topics. Join us as we discuss topics ranging from design for reliability techniques to field data analysis approaches.

SOR 834 Reliability AssumptionsCarl S. Carlson

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