32.
0 PROCESS CAPABILITY
32.1 Introduction:
Process capability provides quantified prediction of process adequacy .It is the measured
inherent variation of the product turned out by a process.
32.2 Process:
This refers to some unique combination of machine ,tools method ,material and people
engaged in production
32.3 Capability:
This word is used to in the sense of an ability, based on tested performance to achieve
measurable results.
32.4 Uses of process capability information
Predicting the extend of variability that processes will exhibit. Such information when
provided to the designers can help in setting realistic specification limits. Most appropriate
process for the tolerance to meet can be chosen. It will provide a quantified basis for
establishing a schedule and periodic process control check and readjustment It will assist
machines to classes of work for which they are best suited. Testing theories of causes of
defects during quality improvement program. It will serve as a basis for specifying the
quality performance requirement for purchased machines
32.5 Standardized formula
Process capability =± 3 σ (a total of 6 σ)
Where σ =the standard deviation under a state of statistical control
Capability ratio cp= specification range
process capability
= USL-LSL
6σ
*USL=upper specification limit.
*LSL=Lower specification Limit.
Process capability ratio Total product
0.5 13.36%
0.67 4.55%
1.00 0.36%
1.33 64 ppm
1.63 1 ppm
2.00 0
32.6 The CPK capability index
Process capability ratio as measured by cp refers tom the variation in a process about the
average value. In the figure 2 processes have same capabilities. Because 6 σ is same for
each distribution. the process aimed at 2 is producing defectives because it is off centre.
LSL USL
M1
M2
Therefore it is useful to have a capability index that reflects both variation and the location of
the process average. such on index is CPK
X-LSL , USL-X
Cpk = Min ----------- --------
6 6
Eg; USL =20, X=16, LSL=8, S=2,
Capability Ratio = USL-LSL/6 = (20-8)/12 =1
Cpk= Min (16-8)/6 , (20-16)/6 =0.67
If the actual average is equal to the midpoint of the specification range then ,
cpk = cp
