Developing a database for a reliability, availability, and maintainability (RAM) improvement program for an industrial plant or commercial building

This author outlines a time-tested process for assembling a sound RAM database. It is noted that its applicability to electrical systems is obvious, but that it can also be used successfully in improving the reliability of various other types of systems, e.g., in an industrial facility, commercial building, or health-care facility. Particular attention is given to facility and company-specific data requirements and sources, on-site data collection, RAM data analysis, generic compound RAM data, and sources of database development expertise.<>