Control of the variability of the biofuel packaging process through the six sigma methodology: a case study

Abstract

The present work carried out the control of the variability in the biodiesel packaging through the application of the steps of the DMAIC (Define Measure, Analyze, Improve and Control) of the Six Sigma quality program. The DMAIC method brings together a set of statistical and quality tools for the study of process variability. Prior to the project, in the period evaluated between June and October of the year 2017 the average monthly variation of loss was 387.7 liters with a standard deviation of 421.9 liters. After the implementation of the improvements between January and March of the year 2018, the average monthly variation was -3.187 liters with a standard deviation of 60.95 liters. This evolution in the control and reduction of losses in the container of biodiesel was possible through the actions of improvements and involvement of the people of the billing and shipping. After all the improvements implemented, the maintenance and continuity of the controls met two important requirements of the Six Sigma quality program: customer focus and financial impact.