Reliability analysis and identification of critical components using Markov model

Abstract

This paper presents a mathematical model based on continuous time Markov chain for performing availability and reliability analysis of a repairable system consisting of n components. It also describes a methodology for identifying a critical component based on continuous-time Markov chain state probabilities of an n-component repairable and non-repairable system. As an illustration, a 3-component repairable system has been modelled. A case study of conventional lathe machine has been presented to solve for state probabilities and analysed to find reliability indices, MTTF, MTBF, MTTR and Availability to provide insights and guidance on improving upon the reliability and maintainability.