Justify electromechanical device good after sitting 5 yrs on shelf

[qu1nn]

What methods can be used in order to justify the use of an electromechanical device that has been sitting on a shelf for 5 yrs.

-> obviously the device could be hooked up and performance verified.
-> if MTBF is known, shelf time could be subtracted out

any other ideas? or techniques?


Thanks for your time
Qu1nn
Qu1nn

 

[mdonner]

If the device was properly stored (sealed wrapping, moisture protected) then it is as good as new.
No need to subtract from MTBF: this is for active devices.
If storage conditions are unknown, check for corroded contacts and sticky moving part(s). Bake in oven (or heat carefully) to dissipate moisture, cool down, measure coil breakdown (insulation strength), mount to safe hold-down and apply power to check functionality.
This is very general, and if you have a data sheet you will want to perform more checks before applying power.
Bare in mind that such devices are in the field working for many years, and the only concerns are: keep moisture away and check contacts frequently (especially if current flow is very low and not frequent).

 

[busbar]

Very limited information presented makes for fairly wild speculation. Primarily, how critical is the device to your operation and what are the costs needed for tests to determine its condition?

Electrical engineering is partly a philosophical matter, but much more a practical one. Please, give us details. “More information about the setting and events of interest is needed to attempt to answer your question.”

 

[qu1nn]

I do not have all of the details. The device is a pressure transducer ( I dont know if it is a hermetically sealed or not). For the storage environment I am not sure, but I can only assume std storage conditions.

Again,
I do not have all of the details, I am sorry.

I guess if there is a question on the operation of the device, it should be just sent back and a performance run made. I wasnt sure if there was other "common practices" for the scenario.

Thanks for your input
Qu1nn
Qu1nn

 

[don01]

Considering a normal run of the mill pressure transducer for industrial applications - 5 years = spring chicken, if its in the makers packaging. In Aus auto manufacturers may do a one off buy for 10 years of spares (10 years support required by gov.)
We have routinely used instruments and electrical gear which has been purchased as "critical spares" with the plant 10 or more years after the buy date.
Just be a bit wary of electronics with older style electrolytic capacitors. I believe the new enerations don't dry out like the older style.

Medical and aero (et al) industries ARE concerned about use by dates
Hope this helps

Don