The following is a list of terms used, along with their meaning or definition as applied in this book.

Accelerated test

A test in which the applied stress is higher than design values so as to reduce the time to failure. The basic failure mechanism and failure modes must not be altered in this process of acceleration.

Age-exploration

A method used to decide maintenance intervals when failure rates are unavailable. We choose an initial interval based on experience, engineering judgement or vendor recommendations. Thereafter we refine the intervals based on the condition of the equipment when inspected. Each new inspection record adds to this knowledge, and using these we make further adjustments to the maintenance intervals.

Availability

1) The ability of an item to perform its function under given conditions.

2) The proportion of a given time interval that an item or system is able to fulfil its function.

Availability = {time in operation - ( planned + unplanned) downtime} / time in operation

Breakdown

Failure resulting in an immediate loss of product or impairment of technical integrity.

Circadian rhythm

A natural biological cycle lasting approximately 24 hours, which governs sleep and waking patterns.

Compliance

A measurement of the percentage completion at the end of a defined period of the routine maintenance jobs due in that period.

Condition Based Maintenance

The preventive maintenance initiated as a result of knowledge of the condition of an item from routine or continuous monitoring

Condition Monitoring

The continuous...