A review of mechanical reliability

Abstract

Abstract

This paper reviews the background to mechanical reliability from a design engineering viewpoint. It considers the way in which mechanical reliability is primarily dictated by design decisions and illustrates the reliability engineering models which can provide guidance during mechanical engineering design with some examples. Many modern technological systems involve the integration of multidisciplinary systems. These can be found in such diverse major industries as transportation, power generation, food production, chemical processing and advanced manufacturing. Clearly, the reliability of the mechanical system elements is a crucial consideration in all such highly integrated complex systems. Fortunately, after many years of research and application, the engineering approaches concerned with the reduction in uncertainty are sufficiently well understood to result in the existence of many examples of highly reliable mechanical system elements, although the particular problem of mechanical reliability prediction still exists. In particular, the engineering understanding resulting from an examination of potential failure modes, the messages resulting from a consideration of the load—strength interference theory, the load-chain model, environmental considerations and the complex equipment model are examined to identify the advantages of these approaches as a basis for mechanical design. Some of the many difficulties which still remain in dealing with mechanical reliability are also identified.