Six Sigma Training Case Study

Michael G. White, P.E., C.Q.E., trained Chris Kennedy of Hexcel* in Quality Improvement and Control methods (incl. Six Sigma) and mentored him through all phases, steps, and tools of the process and quality improvement activities of the project work plan (attached).

The project’s goal was to reduce the cutaway selvage in a carbon fabric weaving process by over 50%/year, or by more than $100,000/ year (Plan Phases I through III). Improvements resulting from the quality and process improvement steps and tools (per Plan Phase IV) resulted in operational improvements to their weaving loom process.

Chris Kennedy completed his project at the end of 2003 and started tracking savings on January 1, 2004. Through the first 6 months of 2004 (Control Phase V), they have saved nearly $64,000.

Michael G. White, P.E., C.Q.E.

President, Qi2

www.sixsigma-qi2.com

 

*Chris Kennedy address:
   Hexcel Corporation
   1913 N. King St.
   Sequin, TX 78155
   830-379-1580

 

 

Cutaway Selvage Reduction Project Work Plan

1. Phase I – Define
1. Define the Problem
2. Define the External Critical-to-Customer Requirements and the Internal Critical Quality Characteristics (CTQs)


2. Phase II – Measure
1. Validate the Measurement System for the CTQs
2. Determine Baseline Levels for the CTQs


3. Phase III – Analyze
1. Determine Performance Objectives for the CTQs
2. Gather and Analyze Data and Identify Root Causes


4. Phase IV – Improve
1. Select Solutions
2. Develop Implementation Action Plans
3. Communicate Solutions
4. Implement Solutions


5. Phase V – Control
1. Monitor Solutions
2. Replicate and Standardize the Results