Measuring Perfomance, Product Control and Testing

Measuring Perfomance, Product Control and Testing

Batch testing

A typical batch sampling routine can present many challenges and hidden costs. For example, risk analysis could determine a procedure for testing one sample product for every 100 that come off the assembly line.

Suppose a sample is sent to the laboratory where it undergoes rigorous testing and fails. Strictly speaking, production should then be halted until the cause and extent of the fault is identified. This should include recalling and testing not only the remaining 99 items of that particular batch, but any items produced since the sample was taken. The cost of this exercise can be worked out in terms of:

• Recall costs (time, labor, discard packaging, etc., which can be even greater if products have left the factory).
• Testing costs (which will now include skilled labor).
• Rework costs (time, labor, and parts, if any).
• Lost production (highly unlikely that all items are salvageable).

100% Testing

It is important to define what 100% testing means. Testing 100% of components allows for identification of problems and defects before assembly, increases confidence in finished products, and reduces the chance of product rework.

Standard specifications

Generally, standards are rules, techniques and conditions for engineering design, industrial practices, units of measurement, terminology, etc. Standards are rules for uniformity, size, quality, performance of manufactured products. Most standards are created by professional societies or governmental organizations. There is also the International Standards Organization (ISO);ISO is a nongovernmental organization that creates and approves international standards.