Mean Time To Failure (MTTF) represents the average time a non-repairable device is expected to function before failing. For systems assumed to have a constant failure rate, it is calculated as the reciprocal of the failure rate (). For instance, if a component exhibits a failure rate of 0.001 failures per hour, the MTTF would be 1000 hours.
Knowing the expected lifespan of a component or system is crucial for planning maintenance schedules, estimating replacement costs, and ultimately improving system reliability. Historically, calculating this metric has allowed engineers to proactively address potential failures, minimizing downtime and maximizing the operational lifespan of equipment. This predictive capability is vital for sectors ranging from manufacturing to aerospace.
