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Machine/Process Capability Study

A Five-stage Methodology For Optimizing Manufacturing Processes

by Mario Perez-Wilson
The Machine/Process Capability Study book was the original book that defined the M/PCpS Methodology for Process Characterization. It is currently an introduction to the M/PCpS Methodology. This book has evolved into a five volume set of over 1,800 pages.
Book Description Benefits
The purpose of this book is to serve as a single source of reference to those individuals who are involved in the implementation of statistical methods (Statistical Process Control and Design of Experiments) in manufacturing. It presents a standard methodology for conducting machine and process characterization studies. The methodology has been designed to provide industry with a standard approach for studying processes, and enable them to produce within specifications.

The Machine/Process Characterization Study methodology, M/PCpS, presents the steps necessary to achieve process capability in sequential order.

It is divided into five progressive stages: 1) Process Delineation, 2) Metrology Characterization, 3) Capability Determination, 4) Optimization, and 5) Control. Prior to introducing each stage, necessary background information is presented. This information usually consists of problem solving tools and/or statistical techniques. Each stage is then thoroughly explained and broken down into further steps. Each step is then defined and described in detail using a "real world" manufacturing process example. The M/PCpS Methodology has received global recognition and has become the standard approach in the achievement of Six Sigma Quality.

  • Standardization of Machine and Process Characterization Studies
  • Reduction of the variability in the total process
  • Documentation of the process characterization efforts of continuous improvement
  • Centralization and dissemination of information about processes
  • Achievement of a high level of quality (Cpk ~ 2.0) Six Sigma
  • Creation of a common language among engineers and a common approach to Process Characterization

MPCpS Book
Availability M/PCpS Methodology
  • Pages: 358
  • First Published: 1989
  • Current Sixth Edition: 2014
  • ISBN: 1-883237-10-6
  • Available with seminar attendance
An M/PCpS study is a stepwise analytical investigation using a standardized methodology for determining the current capability of a manufacturing process and for identifying, reducing or eliminating its major sources of variation. The M/PCpS methodology presents a systematic and logical approach to characterizing and optimizing machines and processes. For that purpose, it is divided into five stages.

Stages of the M/PCpS Methodology

  • Stage 1: Process Delineation
  • Stage 2: Metrology Characterization
  • Stage 3: Capability Determination
  • Stage 4: Optimization
  • Stage 5: Control
Factum
This is the Original book used to achieve Six Sigma at Motorola.

This book is currently used as a training material for an introduction to the M/PCpS Methodology.