Reliability analysis based on the Weibull distribution: an application to maintenance float factors

Abstract

This paper describes an operational system composed of a number of independent but similar units. A given number N must be in service and to ensure this a maintenance float is provided. The float comprises units under repair and in an equipment reserve. Float factors are estimated using a Weibull distribution for failures and a log-normal function for repairs. Both functions are applied to an engineering case study and the estimated float levels are compared with a simulation of the field data. Optimum float levels are developed using a simple cost model.