This presentation describes the distinction between failure rate prediction and estimation methods in general.
It then gives details about the procedures used to obtain dangerous failure rates for certain mechanical equipment using FMEDA predictions and OREDA estimations.
The results of the two methods when applied to specific equipment combinations are compared and, when differences in the results exist between the two methods, plausible explanations for the differences are provided.
The relative merits of each method are discussed.
Loren Stewart graduated from Virginia Tech with a BSME. She has over 10 years of professional experience. She currently works for exida consulting as a safety engineer, focusing on the mechanical aspects of their customers. Along with assessing the safety of products and creating FMEDAs and reports, she researches stiction and is creating a database for the 2H initiative according to IEC 61508.