Betrouwbaarheidscentrisch

Betrouwbaarheid (Dutch for reliability) is a measure of the consistency and dependability of a system or component. In engineering and statistics, it refers to the probability that a device will perform its required function under stated conditions for a specified period of time. The term is used across domains such as mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, software development, and consumer electronics, and is closely related to concepts like availability, maintainability, and robustness.

Reliability metrics include mean time between failures (MTBF), failure rate (lambda), and the reliability function R(t). For constant failure rate, R(t) = exp(-lambda t) and MTBF = 1/lambda. More flexible models use Weibull or lognormal distributions to describe varying failure rates over time.

Reliability engineering uses life testing, accelerated life testing, reliability block diagrams, fault trees, and reliability-centered maintenance to predict performance and guide design choices.

To improve reliability, engineers apply design for reliability, redundancy, modular design, quality control, and predictive maintenance. These approaches aim to reduce the likelihood of failures, extend useful life, and minimize downtime under expected operating conditions.

Standards and domains include ISO 9001 quality management, IEC 61508 functional safety, ISO 26262 automotive, and aerospace standards. Reliability prediction methods such as MIL-HDBK-217 are used in some industries to estimate component and system performance during the design phase.