FAILURE MODES AND EFFECTS ANALYSIS (FMEA)

Abstract

FMEA stands for Failure Modes and Effects Analysis. It is also known as Failure Modes Effects and Criticality Analysis (FMECA). It is a method of predicting potential failure modes in product design and manufacturing and leads to safer, better quality products.

Applied correctly a FMEA should be performed by a team with experience in the product area and specific skills in design, manufacturing and service. From the initial design concepts, the team should brainstorm potential ways the product or its manufacturing process could fail, the likelihood of failure and its consequence. For each potential failure ratings are hence given for the likelihood of failure (occurrence) severity of failure (severity) and likelihood of such a failure being detected (detection). The product of these three numbers forms a risk priority number (RPN) which indicates any high risk failures so that preventative action can be taken.

This overview will introduce the topic of Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) and will give a general guidance in the application of this powerful prevention technique. The application of this technique is to identify critical parameters and support a company's commitment to continually improve its products and service whenever possible. Upfront time spent in doing a comprehensive FMEA well, when product/process can be most easily and inexpensively implemented, will alleviate late change crises. This process is disciplined and interactive, and never ending. Many industries, such as Automotive, Aerospace, Health Care, Medical, Chemical, etc., require FMEAs as a preventive tool.

Bio

He is currently is currently Director of Quality Assurance for Pixley Richards, Inc., Plymouth, MA. He is also the Chairman of the Quality Support Group of New England, an organization dedicated to benchmarking, training and sharing best practices.

He has over 23 years of experience in the Automotive and Chemical Industries working in many functional areas including Operations and Quality Assurance.

Mr. Scangas is a RAB-approved ISO 9000 Lead Auditor and a certified instructor in QS 9000, TS 16949, APQP, FMEA, PPAP, Control Plan, MSA and SPC. He has a B.S. Degree in Chemical Engineering Masters Degree in Manufacturing Engineering and a MBA.