A Decisional Model for Estimating Reliability Curve and Maintenance Intervals of Instrumentation

Measurement instrumentation has to be calibrated at appropriate intervals according to specific maintenance schedules. Metrologists have to deal with this important issue. In the manuscript, a decision-based approach is proposed to improve the choice of calibration intervals. The reliability curve of the tested instrument is estimated to keep under control the decay of its performances. Consequently, the next calibration is scheduled in order to guarantee a suitable instrument reliability level. The proposed model aims to provide metrologists working in calibration field with a methodical procedure for establishing optimal maintenance intervals in compliance with the current Standards. The model is based on general hypotheses, therefore it can be used to optimize maintenance of any measurement system.