Performance Modelling and Performability Analysis of Repairable Industrial Systems Using Stochastic Petri Nets

Abstract

This chapter is an attempt to discuss various applications of Petri nets approach in performance modelling of complex industrial systems. The various terminology, elements and modelling process related to Petri nets have been discussed in chapter. The national economy is significantly influenced by industrial systems, such as those used in the production of chemicals, the generation of electricity, and the manufacture of vehicles. These systems are complex in nature as these have number of subsystems connected in series and parallel configuration. Performability of these subsystems must be very high so as to obtain maximum production with minimum breakdowns. In order to obtain the same, the critical subsystems must be kept at high priority while deciding the maintenance policies and repair procedures. The chapter discusses a novel approach for the performability evaluation and analysis of an industrial complex system which were previously restricted to performance evaluation of computer systems only. Feed water system of a thermal power plant had been considered as case study here. Petri nets approach have been used for the performance modelling and evaluation of performability. Licensed Version of Petri GRIF-predicates Software were used for the modelling purpose. Based upon the performability analysis, a decision support system has been provided which will assign the maintenance order priority among the subsystems based upon their criticality which will further assist the maintenance persons to take right and informed decision while making maintenance and repair policies for various elements.