The reduction of irregularities in the use of “process FMEA”
International Journal of Quality & Reliability Management
ISSN: 0265-671X
Article publication date: 29 June 2010
Abstract
Purpose
Use of failure mode and effect analysis (FMEA) is a requirement of ISO/TS 16949. However, research has shown that there are inconsistencies in the way the technique is applied in automotive suppliers. The aim of this study is to identify these irregularities and to propose a strategy to minimize them.
Design/methodology/approach
Questionnaires were applied in seven of the main suppliers to a European automotive company, and ten FMEAs from each company were analyzed.
Findings
The study identifies irregularities in the development of process FMEAs and highlights seven factors that contribute to these inconsistencies. Based on these data, a strategy including a partially preconfigured FMEA form is suggested. When tested with three of the suppliers, the strategy was found to result in a significant improvement.
Originality/value
The study describes an application strategy for automotive companies to correct problems associated with the use of FMEAs. The strategy includes a partly parameterized spreadsheet for a cold stamping process that allows companies to implement their process FMEA in a collaborative supply chain environment.
Keywords
Citation
Estorilio, C. and Posso, R.K. (2010), "The reduction of irregularities in the use of “process FMEA”", International Journal of Quality & Reliability Management, Vol. 27 No. 6, pp. 721-733. https://doi.org/10.1108/02656711011054579
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2010, Emerald Group Publishing Limited