Reliability

Abstract

Reliability of the finished item is one of the most important features to be taken into account when designing a product. If the reliability is low, then the product ceases to function or, alternatively, to function ineffectively. Product reliability is a function of product design, whereas quality control is purely a manufacturing function. In a broad sense, the performance and/or reliability of a product may be considered as one of its quality characteristics. Quality control should be exercised in manufacturing the product, or a subset of the product, in accordance with pre-defined plans and specifications. Good quality control results in a product that conforms to these specifications. In short, quality control ensures that the product is manufactured to the specification as designed. Reliability is one of the parameters designed into the product by the design engineers. In other words, good reliability engineering results in the design of reliable products.