Role of quality circles & total quality management practices in an Indian public sector industry: A pilot research

Abstract

Quality Circle consists of a group of people, who are doing the same or similar work, who meet voluntarily and regularly to identify, analyse, discuss and solve problems in their work areas. Housing Accessory Cover (Rh) casting used in a critical helicopter component which is a magnesium alloy, thin walled casting needs special attention and careful control of all parameters. This casting has several contours with very close dimensional tolerance. Supply of housing accessory (Rh) casting for a critical helicopter component was delayed beyond the committed date due to high rejection (56%) at floor inspection & radiography. The goal of this pilot study was to examine the factors influencing the successful implementation of active Quality Circles to increase organizational productivity and establish processes to manufacture zero defect components. One such unit quality circles strives to achieve 100% radiographic quality housing accessory cover (Rh) casting with zero level of rejection. In a trial run of 200 units, there was a saving of Rs 19,525 on each casting.