Aging studies for estimating the life of weapon grade magnetic components

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.