Reliability Analysis using Fault Tree Criterion: A Case Study of Inlet Guide Valve of Centrifugal Air Compressor

Abstract

Inlet guide valves (IGVs) are one of the most important components in centrifugal air compressors. Evaluating and analyzing the workings and potential failures of IGV ensures efficient working of centrifugal air compressor by eliminating the potential failure modes. Also, analyzing the risk of the component helps in ensuring reliability and safety, which can in turn ensure higher availability and utilization of the system as a whole. Reliability of IGV will directly affect the safety and operational availability of the centrifugal air compressor. This paper includes the basic concept behind inlet guide vane and fault tree analysis (FTA). Also included is the qualitative FTA of the IGV actuation mechanism.