How Root is the Cause?
Abstract
Carl and Fred discuss the broad subject of identifying root causes and how deep to go. It’s not as simple as getting to the “root.”
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SOR 907 How Root is the Cause?
SOR 904 Good Reliability Requirements
Good Reliability Requirements
Abstract
Carl and Fred discuss the essence of well-written reliability requirements. They are much more than reliability numbers.
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SOR 903 Common FMEA Confusions
Common FMEA Confusions
Abstract
Carl and Fred discuss common FMEA confusions that come up from time to time. These are condensed from questions that Carl gets from “Inside FMEA” readers.
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Operator Error?
An “Inside FMEA” reader recently asked a question on the subject of Process FMEAs, specifically whether assigning the cause as “operator error” is useful. This article will share insights into the nature of a cause in Process FMEA, and whether describing cause as “operator error” adds value.
Fred and I podcasted on this topic. Link to the podcast is here.
I’ve seen literally hundreds of Process FMEAs that list “operator error” as the cause of a process related failure mode. Let me be as clear as I can. Assigning “operator error” as the cause in a Process FMEA does not add value. I’ll explain. [Read more…]
The Future of Reliability Engineering
Guest Post by Carl Carlson (first posted on CERM ® RISK INSIGHTS – reposted here with permission)
Destiny is no matter of chance. It is a matter of choice. It is not a thing to be waited for, it is a thing to be achieved.” – William Jennings Bryan
The Oxford English dictionary defines “reliability” as “the quality of being able to be trusted to do what somebody wants or needs.”
The textbook definition for “reliability” is “the probability that an item will perform its intended function for a designated period of time without failure under specified operating and environmental conditions.”
In this article, I will share a brief outline of the current and future state of reliability engineering, what works and doesn’t work, and why it matters to all of us.
SOR 896 Q & R Management: Independence vs. Integration
Quality and Reliability Management: Independence vs. Integration
Abstract
Carl and Dianna sharing experiences with different forms of managing quality and reliability activities. The importance of independence was compared to the importance of integrating with the design activities. What works, what doesn’t work, and why?
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Generic Lists of Failure Information – Good Idea or Not?
Are generic lists of failure information useful to FMEA teams? Are they a good idea or not?
There is a lot of discussion amongst FMEA practitioners on automating and standardizing FMEAs. In this article, I will discuss the pros and cons of using generic lists of failure modes, effects and causes.
The Oxford English dictionary defines “generic” as “characteristic of or relating to a class or group of things; not specific.” [Read more…]
SOR 892 Where are FMEAs (and their standards) Heading?
Where are FMEAs (and their standards) Heading?
Abstract
Carl and Chris discussing the future of FMEA, sharing their vision for where this method is headed.
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Common FMEA Confusion
[Last month I mentioned that the next article would be on the subject of the application of models in the FMEA process. I am postponing that important topic, in order to do more research. Stay tuned . . .]
This month, I want to discuss one of the most common problems that FMEA teams face: getting confused about the difference between failure modes, effects and causes.
“Things are not always as they seem; the first appearance deceives many.” Phaedrus
SOR 883 How to Start First Job
How to Start First Job
Abstract
Carl and Fred sharing suggestions for new reliability engineers on what to do when starting your first job.
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SOR 882 Operator Error?
Operator Error?
Abstract
Carl and Fred discussing a question from an Inside FMEA reader on the subject of Process FMEA. It brings up a general topic of root cause, and whether assigning the cause to various forms of operator error is useful.
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SOR 880 Bathtub Curve Flaws
Bathtub Curve Flaws
Abstract
Carl and Fred discussing a reader question having to do with the use of the reliability bathtub curve, including the efficacy of the curve itself.
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SOR 879 Biggest Reliability Mistakes
Biggest Reliability Mistakes
Abstract
Carl and Fred discussing some of the biggest reliability mistakes they have seen in their careers, and the lessons learned from those mistakes.
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FMEA vs FMECA: What’s the Difference?
What is the difference between FMEA and FMECA? Are they the same or different? The answer may surprise you. Let’s explore this topic.
SOR 872 Design Process Blindspots
Design Process Blindspots
Abstract
Carl and Fred discussing the interesting subject of “blind spots,” and how they can impede good designs.
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