First Pass Yield Improvement on Casting Cell Using DMAIC Methodology

Abstract

This research project was focused in the First Pass Yield improvement in a cell of a Medical Device Company. In order to improve the first pass yield, the DMAIC methodology was used. This research contributed to improve the yield at the manufacturing cell where the pacemaker header is formed. This was important for the process, because it reduced rework, overtime and the negative impact on product released. It was determined that the top offender was Bubbles and it was identified (using a DOE) that a configuration of seals and Humidity interact with the bubble creation at the Header formation. The goal to improve the First pass yield (FPY) was achieved successfully, based on the results. Key Terms ⎯ Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control (DMAIC), Design of Experiment (DOE), First Pass Yield (FPY).