A Developed Framework for Estimating the Equipment' Health Indicator: A Study for Wind Tunnel Equipment

Health index is a tool to evaluate the functional condition of an equipment with the aim of improving its operational performance. In this research, the types of models available in the field of asset health index estimation along with their challenges and limitations were examined, based on a developed model. The proposed model was implemented in five different types of wind tunnel equipment fans, due to their significant maintenance and repair costs. The model proposed in this research in order to estimate the health index includes steps such as: 1) selecting the equipment and defining its class, 2) evaluating the effect of loading factors and location, 3) calculating the aging rate, 4) achieving the initial health index at age t and 5) evaluation of load effect, modifiers of health index and reliability, and calculation of current health index. Examining the values obtained from the fan health index, in the form of a graphic design, showed that it is possible to determine the speed of failure rate and the functional life of the equipment. The results of this research can be used in choosing the appropriate strategy for maintenance and repairs with the aim of improving the operational performance of other equipment.