IntermediateTopic 36 of 102Manufacturing, Robotics & Systems

Process capability

Cp and Cpk compare process spread with tolerance.

In depth

Cp=(USL-LSL)/6σ compares tolerance with process spread; Cpk=min((USL-μ)/3σ,(μ-LSL)/3σ) also accounts for centring. Cpk≥1.33 is usually required, ≥1.67 for critical features. Requires a stable process and normality.

Key points

  • Pp and Ppk long-term
  • Defect rate PPM
  • Improvement: centring then spread reduction
Example

A process with Cpk=1.0 produces about 2700 ppm outside limits.

Why it matters

Process capability compares the natural spread of a process with the tolerance, so you know whether a process can meet the drawing.

Where this is used

  • Deciding whether a turning process can hold a 0.02 mm tolerance.
  • Comparing two suppliers for the capability of a critical dimension.
  • Setting a target Cpk for a new production line.

Frequently asked questions

What is Process capability?

Cp and Cpk compare process spread with tolerance.

Why is it important to understand process capability?

Process capability compares the natural spread of a process with the tolerance, so you know whether a process can meet the drawing.

What is Cp?

The ratio of the tolerance width to six times the process standard deviation, which measures spread without considering centring.

What is Cpk?

A measure that also considers how well the process mean is centred within the tolerance, so it is the more practical measure.

How is Process capability used in practice?

Typical applications include deciding whether a turning process can hold a 0.02 mm tolerance, comparing two suppliers for the capability of a critical dimension and setting a target Cpk for a new production line.

What should I learn before Process capability?

Study "Six Sigma and lean" first (topic 35 of 102 in Manufacturing, Robotics & Systems). It covers the groundwork this topic builds on.

What are the key points of Process capability?

Pp and Ppk long-term. Defect rate PPM. Improvement: centring then spread reduction.

Can you give an example of Process capability?

A process with Cpk=1.0 produces about 2700 ppm outside limits.

What comes after Process capability?

The next topic is "Plant layout and material handling", which builds directly on this one.

How difficult is Process capability?

It is classed as Intermediate in Manufacturing, Robotics & Systems (topic 36 of 102). It is an intermediate topic. Work through the beginner topics in Manufacturing, Robotics & Systems first.

Learning path

Want to practise? Open the interactive course for quick checks, quizzes, simulations and progress tracking.

Related topics