Aging studies for estimating the life of weapon grade magneticcomponents

Abstract:  Abstract In order to determine if the life of fielded weapons can be extended, Sandia National Laboratories (SNL) is investigating the long-term reliability of weapon systems' components. The new stockpile program hopes to extend the life by proving that the systems will last longer than the initial design required. A small part of this program is a study of the long-term reliability of magnetic components. There are more than 100 designs of magnetic components that are used in weapon sub-systems. The authors present data and failure mode information on several components that are representative of best and worst designs for long-term reliability. Sandia has aged these parts through temperature cycling and elevated temperatures. The results are used to estimate long-term reliability and to develop models for reliability analysis. The important component parameters that affect system performance are highlighted