Service life in operating hours describes the expected operating time of a component or system, measured in hours, under defined operating and load conditions. It indicates how long a component can be operated reliably before function-relevant wear or a failure is to be expected.
Service life in operating hours is a practical characteristic value because it:
- is directly comparable with actual operating times
- enables maintenance and replacement planning
- serves as a basis for decisions on design and cost evaluation
- qualifies the reliability of a system
It is generally based on statistical models and applies to a defined reliability (e.g., 90%).
Einflussfaktoren
- Load spectrum (magnitude, frequency, and duration of the load)
- Speed or feed rate
- Lubrication and sealing system
- Preload of the nut
- Installation position and bearing arrangement
- Ambient conditions (temperature, contamination, etc.)
Relationship with speed and service life in revolutions
Often, service life is first calculated in revolutions or travel distances and then converted into operating hours.
with:
Lh = service life in operating hours
Ln = service life in revolutions
n = speed in rpm