AGMA 07FTM19 PDF

Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF) became a frequently used value describing reliability of components, assemblies, and systems. While MTBF was originally introduced and used mainly in conjunction with electronic components and systems, the definition and application for mechanical components, such as gearboxes, is not broadly available, used, or recognized. In the field of gears it is difficult to obtain an MTBF from the manufacturer due to the lack of applicable, generally recognized definitions and standards. The paper will evaluate, compare and suggest ways in determining a gearbox MTBF based on the already established, proven, design calculation standards and test methods used in the gear design.