Enter the number of failures and the time period into the calculator to determine the failure probability. This calculator helps to evaluate the likelihood of failure within a given time frame.

Failure Probability Formula

The following formula is used to calculate the failure probability.

P_f = (n / t) * 100

Variables:

  • P_f is the failure probability (%)
  • n is the number of failures
  • t is the time period

To calculate the failure probability, divide the number of failures by the time period and then multiply by 100 to convert it to a percentage.

What is Failure Probability?

Failure probability is a measure of the likelihood that a system or component will fail within a specified time period. It is often used in reliability engineering to assess the performance and safety of products and systems. The probability is usually expressed as a percentage, indicating the chance of failure per unit of time.

How to Calculate Failure Probability?

The following steps outline how to calculate the Failure Probability.


  1. First, determine the number of failures (n) that have occurred.
  2. Next, determine the time period (t) over which the failures were observed.
  3. Next, gather the formula from above = P_f = (n / t) * 100.
  4. Finally, calculate the Failure Probability (P_f) in percentage.
  5. After inserting the variables and calculating the result, check your answer with the calculator above.

Example Problem : 

Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.

number of failures (n) = 5

time period (t) = 12 months