− | '''Mean time between failures (MTBF)''' is the predicted elapsed time between inherent failures of a mechanical system, during normal system operation.[1] MTBF can be calculated as the arithmetic mean (average) time between failures of a system. The term is used in both plant and equipment maintenance contexts. | + | '''Mean time between failures (MTBF)''' is the predicted elapsed time between inherent failures of a mechanical system, during normal system operation. MTBF can be calculated as the arithmetic mean (average) time between failures of a system. The term is used in both plant and equipment maintenance contexts. |