The Role of Similarity Analysis and Equivalency Evaluations in Environmental Qualification

Participants in the training will learn how to:

• Describe the fundamental purpose and objectives of a similarity analysis and how this differs from an equivalency evaluation
• Determine criteria for the acceptance of similarity and equivalency evaluations,
• Determine if supplemental or requalification testing is necessary to establish qualification of replacement items,
• Systematically document differences between tested items and item to be qualified
• Adequately document similarity of interfaces

Course Outline

Concepts

• Testing of a Similar Item as a Qualification Method
• Similarity Guidance in Regulatory Documents
• Similarity Guidance in Industry Standards
• Similarity Guidance in Other Documents
• Manufacturer/OEM Similarity Analyses
• Elements of Similarity Analyses
  • Similarity of Material (only part of the full evaluation, but often used in aging analyses)
  • Similarity of Construction and Manufacturing Process
  • Similarity of Functional Performance
  • Similarity of a Family or Series
  • Similarity of Commodity Items
  • Similarity of Field Constructed Items (tape splices, heat shrink splices, epoxy seals)
• Other Processes Related to Similarity/Equivalency
  • Equal to or Better
  • Commercial Grade Dedication
• Determination of Test Report Acceptability
• Determination of Additional Test Requirements
• Review of real life examples