A systems engineering design of a retirement for cause life management process for life-limited F110-GE-400 engine parts
Abstract
Using the systems engineering process, the retirement for cause methodology is adapted for use with and application to the Navy's F11O-GE- 400 engine. A preliminary retirement for cause system design is established, and all life-limited parts are evaluated for participation in the system. A life-cycle cost savings of $270 million is calculated for the four parts selected for management via the established retirement for cause system. Further, this life-cycle cost savings can be achieved with a maximum up-front investment of $4.57 million over two years. Methods for decreasing the upfront investment costs are discussed.
The retirement for cause system defined herein is a feasible and cost effective alternative to the Navy's current life management system for the selected F110-GE-400 engine parts. Flight safety and readiness are shown not to be degraded with implementation of the retirement for cause system. Limitations of this study consists primarily of data non-availability.