In this paper two types of the dynamic reliability model are proposed
and compared with the Weibull distribution of sliding wear. These mode
ls are concerned with the relationship between the hazard function and
the dynamic reliability. One considers a differential equation form,
called the DE model, the other takes an algebraic dependence, AE model
. The physical problem used in the simulation deals with the sliding o
f multiple ring-disk system. The disk is carburized, and the ring is a
ssumed to be much harder than the disk. The dynamic reliability and fa
ilure rate variation of the disk can be estimated by the critical wear
depth during sliding. The results show that the predictions followed
DE model and Weibull distribution are a little conservative. Some phys
ical interpretations of the models are presented. Both models are reco
mmended due to their acceptable RMS error, physical meaning and simple
appearance. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Limited.