Timely Risk Analysis Using Comparative Accelerated Life Testing

This paper describes a process for timely reliability risk evaluation on alternate system components (subassembly) or materials. The proposed process is intended for use when more resource intensive reliability evaluation is not possible, such as during supply shortages. When component/material shortages emerge, available alternatives must be quickly evaluated for potential reliability impacts so informed decisions can be made. Comparative Accelerated Life Testing (CALT) is a faster evaluation technique for relative risk analysis on alternatives that reduces risk of selecting an unproven alternative. This is accomplished by using a side-by-side comparison of the current design standard and alternatives, subjected to accelerated stresses to compare relative expected life.