Summary of Panel Discussion: Life-cycle cost evaluation and target reliability for design

摘要

The goal fo design and management of engineering systems is to determine and implement the best possible strategy that insures an adequate level of reliability at the lowest possible life-cycle cost. Several recent regulatory requirements call for consideration of life-cycle cost analyses for infrastructure investments. Thus far, however, the integration of life-cycle cost analyses for infrastructure investments. Thus far, however, the integration of life-cycle cost analysis with structural reliability analysis has been very limited. Currently, there is no accepted methodology for developing criteria for performance-based design of new facilities and upgrading of existing facilities on the basis of life-cycle cost consideration. The purpose of this Panel Session is to discuss the state-of-the-art and the state-of-practive in expected life-cycle cost-based design decisions for new and existing facilities. Issues such as target reliability level, whole life performance assessment rules, and optimum inspection/repair/replacement strategies will be discussed from a life-cycle cost perspective. Also, research needs regarding life-cycle cost evaluation and target reliability for design will be discussed in the context of optimal lifetime cost consideration.