Rocket engine propulsion 'system reliability'

A system reliability approach is discussed which is based on a quantitative assessment of both the engine system and hardware reliability during the design process. The approach makes it possible to evaluate design trades as the design matures. It is concluded that the system reliability assessment approach offers the following benefits. The uncertainty of each design variable is explicitly considered in the analysis process. The most significant design variables are ranked in order of their effect on reliability. Design trades can be assessed for reliability impact. It is concluded that the approach facilitates communication between disciplines and thus aids in concurrent engineering.