What percentage of in-service gear failures are due to contamination?

The assertion that approximately 75% of in-service gear failures are due to contamination highlights the significant impact that contaminants can have on the performance and reliability of gear systems. Contamination can arise from various sources, such as particulates, water, and chemical substances, which can degrade lubricants and lead to excessive wear, pitting, and ultimately, gear failure.

Understanding this percentage is crucial for reliability engineers and practitioners, as it underscores the importance of effective contamination control measures in maintenance and operational strategies. By focusing on reducing contamination, organizations can enhance gear reliability, reduce operational downtime, and lower maintenance costs. This statistic serves as a guiding metric for prioritizing maintenance efforts and designing systems to mitigate risks associated with contamination.