Parameter estimation for the Weibull distribution

Abstract

In reliability engineering usually three-parameter Weibull distributions are assumed for the occurrences of failures in systems, equipment, and machines. They are used for proper scheduling of maintenance and repairs. The parameters are estimated by applying the maximum likelihood (ML) method. In many practical cases the values of one or two parameters are known from previous observations. So there are seven cases for which the applicability of the method is examined. Our findings are summarised in the concluding table of the paper.