8.2 Quality monitoring systems Flashcards
anacronym definition JIT FMS QRM QC AMT CNC CIM
Just in Time Flexible Manufacturing System's Quick Response Manufacturing Quality Control Advanced Manufacturing Technology Computer Numerical Control Computer Integrated Manufacture
What is Quality?
Quality is first and foremost about meeting the needs and expectations of customers. It is important to understand that quality is about more than a product simply “working properly”.
Think about your needs and expectations as a customer when you buy a product or service.
Think of quality as representing all the features of a product or service that affect its ability to meet customer needs.
Quality Assurance (QA)
QA systems are planned activities used by the manufacturer to monitor the quality of a product from its design and development stage, through its manufacture and to its end use, including the degree of customer satisfaction.
The Four Stages of QA
To ensure the product is fit-for-purpose by using thorough testing throughout the design and development stages.
To regulate the quality of raw materials and components that the manufacturer buys in.
To monitor the quality of components, products and assemblies during production by using a series of quality control (QC) checks, tests and inspections.
To supply fact based evidence to create confidence for customers that the product meets their needs and expectations.
Quality Control (QC)
QC is the part of quality assurance that involves inspection and testing of a product, during or immediately after manufacture.
QC Inspection
Inspection is used to check manufactured products have been produced within the specified tolerance.
100 per cent inspection: where every product in a lot or batch, are inspected.
Normal inspection: using a sample of products.
Reduced inspection: this is used as an economy measure using a smaller sample of products when the level of submitted quality is ‘sufficiently good’.
Computer-aided Inspection
Computer-aided inspection uses a coordinate measuring machine (CMM) for dimensional measuring.
These machines are used to quickly and accurately measure the sizes and positions of features on mechanical parts, with tolerances as small as 0.0025mm.
3D laser scanners can determine the coordinates of thousands of points on a product.
The data is not only used to check size and position, but can also create a 3D model of the product/part using a CAD system.
QC Testing definition
Testing is concerned with a products performance. Tests are carried out under laboratory conditions using strict control procedures to ensure that the results obtained are accurate.
There are two main types of tests:
Non-destructive testing (or failure testing): where the product is tested until it shows signs of failing, for example, cracking, to determine how much force is needed to deform it.
Destructive testing: where a product is destroyed under controlled conditions and monitored to gather valuable research data.
Quality Standards
National Standards: for example, British standards (NSB) and (BSI) developed with the UK government.
European Standards: produced by the European Committee for Standardisation (CEN).
International standards: developed by the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO).
British Standards - The Kitemark Symbol
since 1902
It means that any product displaying the Kitemark has been through a number of rigorous quality processes and customers can buy products knowing that they have reached required standards.
European Standards – The CE Mark
The CE mark appears on products that meet the requirements of all relevant European Directives and ensures that the product can move freely throughout the EU.
Total Quality Management (TQM)
QA procedures are applied at every stage of the production process.
TQM is defined as a management method relying on the cooperation of all members of an organisation. TQM is a Management method that centers on quality and on the long-term success of the organisation through the satisfaction of the customers, as well as the benefit of all its members and society.
Benefits of TQM
ISO 9000 approved companies only buy components/materials from other approved suppliers
Control over raw materials
Reduces waste/increases efficiency
Enables products to be made ‘right first time’
The company’s reputation remains high
Often leads to repeat orders
Ensures that identical products are manufactured on time
Helps to deliver on budget
Achieves recognised quality standards such as, BSI/ Kite mark/ISO 9000.
Provides a customer services department, which responds to customer feedback; improves customer satisfaction/feedback
