- Home
- > PoF
Physics of Failure
Physics of Failure (PoF) is a science-based approach to reliability that uses modeling and simulation to design-in reliability. It helps to understand system performance and reduce decision risk during design and after the equipment is fielded. This approach models the root causes of failure such as fatigue, fracture, wear, and corrosion. Computer-Aided Design (CAD) tools have been developed to address various failure mechanisms and sites. An example of a failure mechanism is the fatigue cracking of electronic solder joints. PoF saves time, money, and improves reliability.
PoF is useful for both future and fielded systems. Performing PoF early in the design cycle allows dominant failure mechanisms to be identified. As a result, failures may be eliminated through redesign prior to testing. Applying PoF early in the design process can significantly reduce testing and provide a high return on investment. Additionally, PoF analyses help find life limiting failures in fielded products and determine the root cause of failures. Often, simple, inexpensive design changes can be found to significantly decrease O&S costs.
Benefits include:
- Design-in reliability up front
- Eliminate failures prior to test
- Better chance of passing test
- Increased fielded reliability
- Improved prognostics (life consumption monitoring)
- Decreased Operations and Support (O&S) cost
Team Mission
Provide Physics of Failure analyses, guidance and support to Army, DoD, and defense contractors, to reduce O&S costs and increase system readiness. Assess and apply the most beneficial PoF tools and methodology to Army systems, assist research institutions in the development and validation of new PoF tools and methodology, and develop approaches for probabilistic PoF and PoF-based prognostics. Support an Army-wide application of PoF and the transfer of tools and methodology to defense contractors.
