ABSTRACT
The application of reliability or availability targets to oil/gas development projects has often been discussed, particularly regarding their consistency with overall project objectives. In this paper, this question is addressed, and possible solutions proposed. It is concluded that using quantitative reliability targets at an early development stage is inappropriate, may restrain sound innovation and judgement, and could result in an unnecessarily expensive design. Therefore, a more cost-effective approach adapted to the design process is recommended. The starting-point is a systematic use of reliability as one of several key parameters in conceptual design definition and optimisation. Later, at the detailed design stage, effort should shift to follow-up, verification and equipment vendor evaluation with emphasis on reliability-critical items. This would ensure that attention is focused on finding the most economic solution, rather than on attaining unfounded numerical targets.
