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My supplier has given me PFD values only (λD missing)
Background
PFDavg (or unavailability, Un) is defined as:
Un ≅ λMDT
In the context of Safety Instrumented Functions (SIFs), Mean Down Time (MDT) is typically taken as the midpoint of the proof test interval, hence:
PFDavg ≅ Un ≅ λ * (Tp / 2)
A PFDavg value cannot therefore be assigned to an element without the proof test interval (Tp) and the appropriate failure rate, λ.
Alternative Approach #1
If you have a PFDavg value for an element that you wish to use in SIL Comp©, the following relationship provides an approximate and conservative λD value, which can then be assigned to an element:
λD ≅ PFDavg / (Tp / 2)
Where:
λD = λDD + λDU
Alternative Approach #2
If you have a PFH value for an element that you wish to use in SIL Comp©, the following relationship provides an approximate and conservative λD value, which can then be assigned to an element:
λD ≅ PFH
Where:
λD = λDD + λDU