Reliability, Availability and Maintainability (RAM) study is a structured and quantitative approach implemented for asset optimization and work on the Monte-Carlo principle to significantly lower project costs. The objective of the RAM modeling and simulation is to highlight all possible causes of production losses and suggest the best system alternatives. It is a probabilistic approach and work on the Monte-Carlo principle. Thus, the RAM study is a tool for decision-making and optimizing the system by altering specific parameters in the design or it’s logistic to achieve maximum cost-efficiency.
The figure explains the relationship between Reliability (R), Availability (A) and Maintainability (M) and their definition. From the figure and the definition, it is clear that a system will perform optimal when these factors are considered into the design and operation of the system. Hence a proper RAM analysis will result in achieving maximum system ability as per its design. Consequently a better decision for productivity, services utilization, maintenance and functioning of equipment are implemented.
The RAM study and analysis is generally performed during the FEED stage of the project. However, it can be reviewed and updated as the complexity of project increases with the progress. But this update of the system during the later stage should not impact the project cost. As mentioned, the main significance of RAM analysis is to evaluate the causes of loss of operational availability or issues that may limit the production throughput and suggest improvement.
The main points considered during the RAM study of a system is mentioned below:
The benefits of undertaking a RAM Studies include:
In short the RAM modelling for a given system is performed in following steps