Availability Optimization of a Series-Parallel Systems using Genetic Algorithms S. P. Sharma1 , Dinesh Kumar2 and Ajay Kumar3 Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee Roorkee 247 667, INDIA Abstract Due to complicated structure of industrial systems, system-availability has become an increasingly important issue. If the reliability of a complex system is increased, the related cost will also increase. The objective of this paper is to improve the design efficiency and to find the most optimal policy for MTBF (mean time between failures), MTTR (mean time to repair) and related costs. Pulping system, the main functionary part of paper industry, is the subject of study. MTBF and MTTR of various components, during the design phase, are obtained using genetic algorithms (GAs), in a cost effective manner, which helps the system analyst to formulate optimal design policies and repair policies.

Key Words: Availability, Genetic algorithm, Optimization & Reliability.

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Department of Mathematics, Email: [email protected] Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Email: [email protected] 3 Corresponding author: Department of Mathematics, Email: [email protected] 2

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