Abstract:

The problem of optimum spare parts quantities of Strategic Storage System (n:k(S)) is first introduced by the Second Artillery Army of PLA for their needs. A major challenge of this problem is that the aging process of n:k(S) is quite different from and more complex than ordinary redundant systems. In this paper, the aging process of n:k(S) is split into two stages. Each stage is modeled by a continuous time Markov chain. An analytical method based on such Markov chain models is provided for calculating the optimum spare parts quantities of n:k(S) under reliability restriction. Moreover, a simple and efficient formula is presented to deal with unrepairable n:k(S). The present work can be used as guidance in the spare part supply planning of n:k(S).

Key words: reliabilit y, optimization, Markov chain, spare part, redundant system