Title: Reliability modelling of a parallel system with a supporting device and two types of preventive maintenance

Authors: Ibrahim Yusuf

Addresses: Department of Mathematical Sciences, Bayero University, Kano, P.M.B. 3011, Kano, Nigeria

Abstract: This study presents the reliability assessment of two unit active parallel systems connected to an external supporting device for its operation. The system is under two types of preventive maintenance, online and offline preventive maintenance. The online preventive maintenance (PM) is done before units/system failure while offline preventive maintenance is done to the external supporting device at units'/system failure. Using Kolmogorov forward equations method, explicit expressions related to system effectiveness important to reliability engineers, maintenance managers, system designers, etc. have been obtained. Based on assumed numerical values given to system parameters, graphical illustrations are given to highlight important results. Comparisons are performed to highlight the impact of online and offline preventive maintenance. Reliability of the system is improved with online and offline preventive maintenance.

Keywords: online preventive maintenance; offline preventive maintenance; parallel systems; reliability modelling; reliability assessment; system reliability.

DOI: 10.1504/IJOR.2016.074754

International Journal of Operational Research, 2016 Vol.25 No.3, pp.269 - 287

Received: 03 Aug 2013
Accepted: 08 Feb 2014
Published online: 17 Feb 2016 *

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