During the development of a new power supply product, we carry out a number of tests and analyses in order to achieve a long lasting and reliable performance.
A very powerful methodology is the Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA). This is a systematic analysis approach, which facilitates identification of potential problems during the design process by examining the effects of lower level failure modes. As a result of the analysis alterations are made to eliminate or reduce failure rates in the field. For highly critical applications compensating provisions like adding redundancy for critical systems may be considered to increase the failure tolerance of individual component failure rates.
While power dissipation is unavoidable on power conversion products, they will be minimised by circuit design. However, hot spots on components and insulation materials may occur which may have a detrimental effect on performance, safety and expected life time of the product. We carefully investigate our products during our Detailed Temperature Tests (DTT), where over fifty components are monitored concurrently during various operating conditions.
For verification of the reliability of our newly constructed products, we carry out Highly Accelerated Life Tests (HALT) to verify our operating limits and the destructive limits of the device. HALT stresses products beyond their design specifications, providing our engineers with the opportunity to improve product design, increase robustness and increase the confidence of their customers during early stages of the prototype phase.
For ensuring the mechanical robustness of our products within the planned application, Mechanical Vibration Tests (MVT) are carried out on a regular basis on new constructions. In general the power supplies are shaken in all four axes with sinusoidal, random and shock acceleration levels required by the application.
Based on the statistical failure rates for individual components we calculate the Mean Time Before Failure (MTBF) of our products based on the failure rate of the components used. Our MTBF calculations are based on the expected operating conditions of the product within the application. This predicted elapsed time between inherent failures during operation gives a deep insight into the design and component quality of a power supply.
As expected from a world class manufacturer, Traco Power Solutions Ltd has fully automated test facilities which ensure both consistent performance and reliability of finished products. Every product is subjected to 100% functional testing and burn in.
With regards to Electromagnetic Compatibility testing (EMC) we have the capability to perform all relevant tests and provide the related test report.
info@tracopower.ie