Six Sigma implementation through DMAIC: a case study

Abstract

This paper reports a research in which the impact of implementing define, measure, analyse, improve and control (DMAIC) phases of Six Sigma concept was examined in the production of submersible pumps. During this examination, the problem of overcoming ovality in a component called stage casing was examined through the application of DMAIC phases of Six Sigma. Conduct of design of experiment formed a core activity of this examination. At the end of conducting this examination, two solutions for overcoming ovality were evolved. One of those two solutions was implemented practically. The calculations carried out during this examination revealed that, on the implementation of these solutions, the Sigma level quality is prone to increase from 3.90 to 3.97. This increase in Sigma level indicates that, the implementation of DMAIC would aid small and medium size pumps manufacturing companies to improve their operations so as to perform at Six Sigma level quality.