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Article
Publication date: 1 March 2006

H. Sekhar and R. Mahanti

The aim of the research is to use an integrated approach – simulation and Six Sigma to improve the ambient air quality.

1928

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of the research is to use an integrated approach – simulation and Six Sigma to improve the ambient air quality.

Design/methodology/approach

Integration of simulation and Six Sigma DMAIC methodology in a foundry had been used to improve the ambient air quality. Various elements of the Six Sigma toolkit such as Cause and Effect diagrams and Failure Mode and Effect Analysis have been used to discover the root causes underlying the problem and prioritize action and incorporate cost‐effective solutions. Simulation has been used to improve and control the environmental efficiency by monitoring the performance of the Venturi Scrubber – the pollution control equipment, by running the model under varying conditions.

Findings

The integrated application of Six Sigma and simulation has been successful in reducing particulate emissions from 200 milligrams per cubic meter to less than 20 milligrams per cubic meter and sulphur dioxide emissions from 45 milligrams per cubic meter to less than 4.5 milligrams per cubic meter, thus reducing air pollution.

Practical implications

Air pollution is a burning problem in the present scenario and foundry industries are one of the contributors to air quality degradation. The approach described in this paper is a step towards reducing air pollution due to foundry operations.

Originality/value

Integration of Six Sigma DMAIC methodology and simulation provides a novel cost‐effective strategy for monitoring and reducing air pollution resulting from foundry operations. This paper is useful for environmental division of foundry and other manufacturing industries.

Details

Management of Environmental Quality: An International Journal, vol. 17 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1477-7835

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Article
Publication date: 17 October 2018

Jingcheng Fu, Jun Huang, Li-Bo Wang and Lei Song

The purpose of this paper is to propose an identification method of acquiring aircraft mode characteristics based on fast Fourier transform and half-power bandwidth method, aiming…

127

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose an identification method of acquiring aircraft mode characteristics based on fast Fourier transform and half-power bandwidth method, aiming at the common oscillation met in flight test.

Design/methodology/approach

The feasibility of this method is demonstrated through derivation; the robustness analysis is conducted through three examples, and finally the method was applied on a set of sideslip angle record from flight test.

Findings

The derivation and numerical analysis both show that the presented method can have high accuracy and good robustness under coupled mode and noise condition.

Practical implications

The method proposed is of robustness, and it is concise and easy to apply on flight data record.

Originality/value

This paper demonstrates the feasibility of half power bandwidth to be applied on oscillation mode characteristics identification from flight data record, which is different from other method applied.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, vol. 91 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1748-8842

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Article
Publication date: 17 May 2021

Messaoud Boumaour, Salim Kermadi, Samira Sali, Abdelkader El-Amrani, Salah Mezghiche, Lyes Zougar, Sarah Boulahdjel and Yvon Pellegrin

The purpose of this study is to address the issue of technology equipment formerly dedicated to the process of 4- and even 5-inch photovoltaic cells and whose use has become…

73

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to address the issue of technology equipment formerly dedicated to the process of 4- and even 5-inch photovoltaic cells and whose use has become critical with the evolution of silicon wafer size standards (M2–M10). Fortunately, the recent concept of 6'' half-cut cell with its many advantages appears promising insofar as it offers the possibility of further extend the use of costly, still operational process equipment, but doomed to obsolescence.

Design/methodology/approach

In the background of a detailed Al-BSF process, the authors show how to experimentally adapt specific accessories and arrange 6” half-wafers to enable the upgrade of a complete industrial process of silicon solar cells at a lower cost. Step by step, the implementation of the processes for the two wafer sizes (4” wafers and 6” half wafers) is compared and analyzed in terms of performance and throughput.

Findings

Globally, the same process effectiveness is observed for both types of wafers with slightly better sheet resistance uniformity for the thermal diffusion carried out on the half wafers; however, the horizontal arrangement of the wafer carriers in the diffusion and the plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition tubes limits the thermal balance regarding the total number of cells processed per batch.

Originality/value

In terms of the development of prototypes on a preindustrial scale, this paves the way to further continue operating outdated equipment for high-performance processes (passivated emitter and rear contact, Tunnel oxide passivated contact (TOPCon)), while complying with current standards for silicon wafers up to M10 format.

Details

Microelectronics International, vol. 38 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1356-5362

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Article
Publication date: 3 September 2018

Mihir Patel and Darshak Arunbhai Desai

The purpose of this paper is to capture the status of implementation of Six Sigma in various manufacturing industries and also examine the success of the Six Sigma by using…

2377

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to capture the status of implementation of Six Sigma in various manufacturing industries and also examine the success of the Six Sigma by using different performance indicators.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology of critical review involves the selection and classification of 112 research articles on the implementation of Six Sigma in different manufacturing industries. The selected articles are categorized by the following: articles distribution based on the year of publication, publication database, various journals, contribution of authors, continent, scale of industry, implemented approaches, focused industry, tools and techniques used in phases of Six Sigma methodology, and performance indicators used in Six Sigma implementation. Then after, future scopes of research opportunities are derived based on significant findings.

Findings

The literature revealed that: Very few work was undertaken on the implementation of Six Sigma in various manufacturing industries like ceramic, paper, gems and jewelry, cement, furniture, stone, fertilizer, forging, paper and surface treatment industries. Most of the researchers have considered very few performance indicators to identify the improvement after Six Sigma implementation. But, there is no clue regarding overall improvement in different perspectives after the implementation of Six Sigma. The financial indicators, personnel indicators, process indicators and customer indicators are useful to measure the overall improvement after the implementation of Six Sigma in the manufacturing sector.

Research limitations/implications

The study was carried out on the implementation of Six Sigma methodology in various manufacturing industries, and various performance indicators were identified while implementing the Six Sigma methodology. Case studies pertaining to service industries were not covered here.

Originality/value

Very little research has been carried out to measure the overall success of implementing Six Sigma methodology in manufacturing industries. This paper will provide value to students, researchers and practitioners of Six Sigma by providing insight into the implementation of Six Sigma in manufacturing industries.

Details

International Journal of Quality & Reliability Management, vol. 35 no. 8
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0265-671X

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Article
Publication date: 6 December 2021

Shuo Shan, Yongyi Shou, Mingu Kang and Youngwon Park

This study aims to investigate sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) through the lens of socio-technical system (STS) theory. Specifically, it examines the individual and…

725

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to investigate sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) through the lens of socio-technical system (STS) theory. Specifically, it examines the individual and synergistic effects of social and technical integration on two main sustainability practices (i.e. sustainable production and sustainable sourcing). Supply chain uncertainty is further explored as a key environmental factor.

Design/methodology/approach

A moderated joint effects model was hypothesized. A sample of 759 manufacturing firms was used to test the proposed hypotheses by hierarchical linear regression.

Findings

The results show that both social and technical integration have positive effects on sustainable production and sustainable sourcing. Interestingly, social and technical integration have an enhancing synergistic effect on sustainable sourcing, which is further strengthened in high-uncertainty supply chains.

Originality/value

This study extends the application of STS theory in the SSCM setting. It enriches the sustainability literature by uncovering the impact of the interplay among the firm's social, technical and environmental systems on sustainable production and sourcing, and offers system-wide insights for sustainability management.

Details

Industrial Management & Data Systems, vol. 122 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0263-5577

Keywords

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Article
Publication date: 9 July 2021

Ronny Francis Ribeiro Junior, Isac Antônio dos Santos Areias and Guilherme Ferreira Gomes

Electric motors are present in most industries today, being the main source of power. Thus, detection of faults is very important to rise reliability, reduce the production cost…

447

Abstract

Purpose

Electric motors are present in most industries today, being the main source of power. Thus, detection of faults is very important to rise reliability, reduce the production cost, improving uptime and safety. Vibration analysis for condition-based maintenance is a mature technique in view of these objectives.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper shows a methodology to analyze the vibration signal of electric rotating motors and diagnosis the health of the motor using time and frequency domain responses. The analysis lies in the fact that all rotating motor has a stable vibration pattern on health conditions. If the motor becomes faulty, the vibration pattern gets changed.

Findings

Results showed that through the vibration analysis using the frequency domain response it is possible to detect and classify the motors in several induced operation conditions: healthy, unbalanced, mechanical looseness, misalignment, bent shaft, broken bar and bearing fault condition.

Originality/value

The proposed methodology is verified through a real experimental setup.

Details

Sensor Review, vol. 41 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0260-2288

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Article
Publication date: 4 April 2016

Suresh Prasad, Dinesh Khanduja and Surrender K. Sharma

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the applicability of lean and green practices to foundry industry in India for improving productivity and eliminating waste…

1946

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the applicability of lean and green practices to foundry industry in India for improving productivity and eliminating waste, incorporating the sustainability into business performance measures.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used survey questionnaire method to collect data against 16 lean and green practices from 71 middle- to senior-level professionals belonging to Indian foundry industry. The survey instrument of lean and green practices was developed based on a number of sources from the literature and formal discussions with academicians and foundry industry professionals. The responses were received on a five-point Likert scale ranging from least applicable to most applicable. Exploratory factor and reliability analyses are conducted to obtain and validate constructs and measure each constructs Cronbach’s α (i.e. a consistency coefficient). The lean and green practices are categorized into the four constructs, namely, workplace organization practices, management practices, inventory control practices, and industrial manufacturing and quality improvement practices. Further, descriptive statistics is employed to find out the relative significance of lean and green practices.

Findings

Factor and reliability analyses show that all four constructs are adequate and reliable to illustrate lean and green practices. Descriptive statistics indicates that lean and green practices are applicable for implementation to a certain extent in the foundry industry. Correlation analysis shows that lean practices are positively and moderately interrelated with green practices. Thus, the results present a strong evidence that lean and green practices are moderately applicable for implementation in the foundry industry.

Originality/value

The paper provides insights into the applicability of lean and green practices implementation in the context of a developing country and presents evidence that lean and green practices are moderately applicable in the foundry industry. In addition, this paper is one of the few efforts to promote sustainable development within the industry.

Details

Journal of Manufacturing Technology Management, vol. 27 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1741-038X

Keywords

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Article
Publication date: 12 October 2010

S. Fore and C.T. Mbohwa

The purpose of the paper is to illustrate application of the cleaner production concept so as to incorporate environmental protection into business performance. The study analyses…

1664

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to illustrate application of the cleaner production concept so as to incorporate environmental protection into business performance. The study analyses areas pertaining to the foundry industry that impact negatively on the environment leading to unsustainable resource utilisation and suggests options for promoting sustainable development within the industry, with specific focus on a foundry in a lower income country (LIC).

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected using the cleaner production (CP) Methodology. Pre‐assessment and assessment was carried out and options generated. The options included both low cost and capital intensive approaches.

Findings

The paper finds that the CP approach adopted provides clear guidance for generating options and can be used as a practical basis for managerial decision making and policy formulation. Of major concern is resource depletion and pollution associated with the foundry processes. Used resin sand contains toxic chemicals cause leaching and as such, reclamation of resin sand is suggested. There is need for low income countries (LIC's) to identify the best available technologies (BAT's) that are available within the foundry industry and take these aboard or better still improve on them.

Research limitations/implications

This research developed environmental options that can be applied in the foundry industry. However, it can be said that the findings may have limited global application since the analysis was carried out at one Foundry Company.

Practical implications

The paper focuses on a single foundry factory, since the case study approach was used. As such, environmental indicators and options may vary, since the processes from one foundry to another are bound to differ.

Originality/value

This paper is an attempt at combining theoretical and practical ideas to cover the scope of sustainable manufacturing in the setting of a developing country with a view to identify the lessons that can be learnt and to identify the points of departure when compared with studies done elsewhere. The work informs cleaner production assessment at any level, with a focus of production experiences in the foundry industry in a lower technology, developing economy that is less industrialized. The paper establishes a framework of options that can be applied in the foundry industry and other pollution‐intensive industries.

Details

Journal of Engineering, Design and Technology, vol. 8 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1726-0531

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Article
Publication date: 29 March 2013

Annika Feige, Holger Wallbaum, Marcel Janser and Lukas Windlinger

The purpose of this paper is to research the impact of sustainable office buildings on occupant's comfort and self‐assessed performance and work engagement.

6160

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to research the impact of sustainable office buildings on occupant's comfort and self‐assessed performance and work engagement.

Design/methodology/approach

The research consists in an empirical study of 18 office buildings and is based on survey data from almost 1,500 employees.

Findings

The study shows that the building itself has a clear impact on the comfort level of the building user. Also, the positive impact of certain features, such as operable windows and the absence of air conditioning, can be clearly identified. While productivity is not directly correlated to comfort levels, work engagement is. Generally, the analysis shows that specific building aspects seem to have an influence on user comfort and with that, also an impact on productivity; however, this impact appears to be limited.

Originality/value

This is a very important insight since this shows the connection between employee and company and thus demonstrates that a high user comfort can reduce the turnover rate of employees. Therefore, additional planning towards user comfort and social sustainability can be shown to yield real returns.

Details

Journal of Corporate Real Estate, vol. 15 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1463-001X

Keywords

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Article
Publication date: 16 March 2010

Mohamed Gamal Aboelmaged

This paper aims to clarify emerging aspects and trends of Six Sigma literature over 17 years, from 1992 to 2008.

10850

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to clarify emerging aspects and trends of Six Sigma literature over 17 years, from 1992 to 2008.

Design/methodology/approach

The literature on Six Sigma from 417 referred journal articles in business and management disciplines, information systems and computer science, engineering, healthcare, etc. were systematically analyzed based on a scheme that consists of four distinct dimensions: publication year and journal, major themes, research type, and application sector (i.e. manufacturing vs service).

Findings

A number of key findings emerged: Six Sigma research is growing rapidly, covering various disciplines and domains with a great focus on Six Sigma tools and techniques; empirical research is dominant with more emphasis on case study approach; and the growing gap between manufacturing‐ and service‐focused articles implies the return of Six Sigma to manufacturing as its initial base. Although a large volume of literature is available on Six Sigma, the topic is still under development and offers potential opportunities for further research and applications.

Originality/value

The paper provides both academics and practitioners with a useful framework for pursuing rigorous Six Sigma research through explaining the chronological growth of Six Sigma, challenging themes of Six Sigma research, dominating research types and application areas in Six Sigma, and the major sources of Six Sigma information.

Details

International Journal of Quality & Reliability Management, vol. 27 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0265-671X

Keywords

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