Guidebook for reliability, availability, and maintainability analysis of NWTS repository equipment. Volume I. Technical report

The Guidebook, presented in two volumes, provides a methodology for applying reliability, availability and maintainability (RAM) evaluation techniques to the special needs of a nuclear waste repository. The qualitative and quantitative methods show how RAM considerations may be incorporated into equipment design documentation to improve the reliability and maintainability of repository equipment and systems. The qualitative techniques for applying RAM principles in the design process include the use and preparation of reliability block diagrams, failure modes and effects analysis, and an availability improvement list. The quantitative evaluation techniques involve allocation of availability goals, acquisition of reliability data, definition of data and modeling uncertainties, and quantification of system reliability or availability. Using the Conceptual Reference Repository Design (CRRD) as a basis, step-by-step instructions are provided for applying RAM tools such as systems modeling, failure modes and effects analysis, fault tree analysis, Markov model, maintainability task analysis, uncertainty analysis (Bayes' theorem), etc. The recommended computer programs that would facilitate application of the methodology are also discussed