Application of Management Tools and Continuous Improvement in Layout Review in the Microfusion Decerage Process: Case of Study

Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyze and revise the productive layout of the dewaxing process of an industrial microfusion plant, used in the manufacture of valve components. Assisting in decision-making through continuous improvement tools, to understanding
the data obtained through chronoanalysis, such skills should be part of the active routine of the industrial production manager. The methodology used was the case study, in a
small company in the valve segment that has a microfusion plant among its production processes. After a study of the production cycles of the dewaxing process, a feasibility
study was requested by the company's management to revise the layout and reform the equipment contained in this process. In a second stage, the comparison through the
budget for the acquisition of new, modern, efficient, safe and less polluting equipment. The root causes of the problem in this work were critically analyzed and consequently suggested improvement actions to achieve the desired result. Chrono-analyses by types of components together with quality tools were essential for a better understanding of the studied problem. The joint work of the quality tools: Ishikawa diagram, 5 Why and 5W+2H allow a better direction for decision making. Therefore, its use in process improvement studies is of great relevance, the causes of which will be better identified and the actions will be effective, as they will bring better financial results, elimination of production bottlenecks, meeting production demand and safety for employees