An Application of Quality Control Theory to Vendor-Supplied Parts at an Aerospace Manufacturing Company.
Abstract
Quality assurance functions at some major industrial manufacturers are confronted with test data on a massive scale and are not capable through manual methods of the indepth analyses that are necessary for effective quality control. This report details the development of a quality control system for use at the Garrett Turbine Engine Company, Phoenix, Arizona, in analyzing the results of testing of vendor-supplied castings and forgings. Traditional quality control chart theory and more elaborate statistical testing, such as analysis of variance, were integrated into the computer programs to produce detailed quality control charts and summaries of data analysis and testing. These programs were integrated into a quality control system to allow management to make more timely and better founded decisions on accepting castings/forgings from vendors, modifying testing plans, and modification of material specifications, thereby reducing costs. The testing results of two selected parts were used to verify operation of the programs. Three example situations were developed to demonstrate the system decision making; primarily comparisons of vendor and Garret testing of the same casting/forging and/or comparing different vendors. Further improvements were discussed and recommendations made. Although the system was designed specifically for use by Garrett, it could be used by statistically experienced or inexperienced quality assurance personnel in other firms and/or manufacturing disciplines for effective data analysis.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1985
- Accession Number
- ADA166418
Entities
People
- Daniel E. Gellenbeck
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology