Availability analysis of mechanical systems with condition-based maintenance using semi-Markov and evaluation of optimal condition monitoring interval

Subject Areas : Mathematical Optimization

Girish Kumar ¹ , Vipul Jain ² , O. P. Gandhi ³

1 - Department of Mechanical Engineering, Delhi Technological University, Bawana Road, Delhi, 110042, India
2 - School of Management, Victoria Business School, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
3 - ITMMEC, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, Delhi, 110016, India

Received: 2020-10-06 Accepted : 2020-10-06 Published : 2018-03-01

Keywords: Condition based maintenance . Availability . Semi, Markov process . Degraded states . Mechanical repairable systems,

Abstract :

Maintenance helps to extend equipment life by improving its condition and avoiding catastrophic failures. Appropriate model or mechanism is, thus, needed to quantify system availability vis-a-vis a given maintenance strategy, which will assist in decision-making for optimal utilization of maintenance resources. This paper deals with semi-Markov process (SMP) modeling for steady state availability analysis of mechanical systems that follow condition-based maintenance (CBM) and evaluation of optimal condition monitoring interval. The developed SMP model is solved using two-stage analytical approach for steady-state availability analysis of the system. Also, CBM interval is decided for maximizing system availability using Genetic Algorithm approach. The main contribution of the paper is in the form of a predictive tool for system availability that will help in deciding the optimum CBM policy. The proposed methodology is demonstrated for a centrifugal pump.