| 5 Ms and 1 P |
An expression identifying the six major factors most likely to be the source of problems. These factors are machines, materials, methods, Mother Nature, measurement, and people. |
| 5 Why |
A technique that asks a series of "why" questions (usually 5) in order to isolate the root cause of a problem. 5 Why is also a useful starting point for other troubleshooting techniques. |
| 80-20 rule |
The belief that 80% of a problem is caused by a specific, critical 20% of factors. The 80-20 rule is often illustrated in Pareto charts. |
| brainstorming |
An activity in which an individual or group rapidly lists ideas in order to identify possible problem causes or solutions. During brainstorming, all ideas are accepted and recorded. |
| cause and effect diagram |
A visual tool used to organize possible factors that contribute to a certain problem or event. Cause and effect diagrams are often used in troubleshooting. |
| check sheet |
A quality control form that uses simple marks to collect and record information about a problem by tracking categories and occurrences. Check sheets are typically simple forms that can be filled out on the shop floor. |
| consensus |
A collaboration technique which allows everyone on a team to actively participate in crafting solutions. A consensus is reached when all team members can support the final decision. |
| cyclone process |
A method of forcing gas to swirl through a special compartment in order to separate solids from the gas. The cyclone process helps remove particulates from the gas stream. |
| data |
Factual information that is used for analysis and problem solving. Data is often in the form of values or numbers. |
| deviation |
A situation that is different from what is normal and expected. Some deviations are acceptable and some are not. |
| fishbone diagram |
A visual cause and effect chart used to identify and isolate potential causes of a problem or effect. Fishbone diagrams have the central process in the center with possible causes branching off on separate lines. |
| fishbone diagram |
A visual cause and effect chart used to identify and isolate potential causes of a problem or effect. Possible causes are written on lines branching off from the central process. |
| heat treatment |
The controlled heating and cooling processes used to change the structure of a material and alter its physical and mechanical properties. Heat treatment is often used to adjust a material's hardness. |
| inlet |
The opening through which fluid is drawn into a pump. The inlet must be large enough to allow the required amount of fluid to flow through it. |
| insoluble |
A substance that cannot be dissolved. Insoluble particulates can cause problems like excessive wear. |
| Pareto chart |
A visual tool used in troubleshooting to identify the causes of problems that occur most frequently by distinguishing a problem's major factors from its minor factors. Pareto charts often display the 80-20 rule. |
| Pareto charts |
A visual tool used in troubleshooting to identify the causes of problems that occur most frequently by distinguishing a problem's major factors from its minor factors. Pareto charts often display the 80-20 rule. |
| particulates |
Tiny pieces of solid matter. Particulates include metal, dirt, sand, and dust. |
| problem |
A situation that creates unacceptable quality or safety hazards. Problems must be corrected, usually as soon as possible. |
| root cause |
The true origin of a problem, as opposed to any resulting symptoms or effects. Troubleshooting attempts to determine the root cause in order to create a permanent solution. |
| troubleshooting |
A systematic, standardized approach to solving problems quickly and efficiently. Troubleshooting focuses on identifying the root cause of a problem and eliminating that cause to create a permanent solution. |
| troubleshooting team |
A group of employees who cooperate in order to effectively solve a problem. Troubleshooting teams consist of workers from diverse areas. |
| turbulence |
An upset in the even flow of gas or air. Turbulence is caused by surging fluid. |