Mean Time Between Failure or MTBF is almost universally recognized in maintenance, reliability, and asset management.

Why is that?  And does it actually help an organization improve the reliability of their assets?

The answer is a resounding No.

So why is used so extensively?  Is it because it can be calculated easily, or because of a fundamental misunderstanding?

Fred Schenkelberg has made it a personal mission to debunk the myths around MTBF.   Fred shares his views on MTBF, why organizations need to stop using it immediately, and what should be used instead.

You that you can always find out more on Reliability, at www.EruditioLLC.com and by following our blog.  The Rooted In Reliability podcast is a proud member of the reliability.FM network.

Let us know what you think of the podcast, your suggestions for topics or to ask any questions about this topic.  Email us at info@eruditio.com.

Equations:

• Reliability = R_(t) = e^–lt
  • R(t) = Reliability estimate for a period of time, cycles, miles, etc. (t).
  • e = Base of the natural logarithms (2.718281828)
  • λ = Failure rate (1/MTBF, or 1/MTTF)
• Availability = A = Uptime / Operating Cycle
  • Uptime = Time equipment ran as expected
  • Operating Cycle = Time equipment was planned to run

References:

• NoMTBF.com
• Accendoreliability.com
• Fred Schenkelberg

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