Title: Evaluating reliability of diesel generator peakers using Six Sigma methodologies

Authors: Salma Shaik; Scott M. Sampson; Matthew J. Franchetti

Addresses: Department of Mechanical, Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering, The University of Toledo, Toledo, OH 43606, USA ' Department of Mechanical, Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering, The University of Toledo, Toledo, OH 43606, USA ' Department of Mechanical, Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering, The University of Toledo, Toledo, OH 43606, USA

Abstract: This case study demonstrates the application of DMAIC process improvement methodology to improve the reliability of diesel generator peaker units when called into activation. Although the application of Six Sigma methodologies is commonplace in manufacturing industries, they lack the same level of adaptability in non-manufacturing processes and service industries especially in power generation sector. The main objective of the present case study is to address this gap by developing a thorough analytical framework that can be adapted to improve the reliability of peaker units in any business sector based on Six Sigma methodologies. Failure in control systems, temperature extremes, incorrect flagging of the unit as available were some of the major causes identified for the failure of peaker units.

Keywords: peakers; diesel generators; reliability; Six Sigma; process improvement; design-measure-analyse-improve-control; DMAIC; continuous improvement; case study.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSSCA.2021.120587

International Journal of Six Sigma and Competitive Advantage, 2021 Vol.13 No.4, pp.456 - 476

Received: 30 Sep 2020
Accepted: 30 Mar 2021
Published online: 26 Jan 2022 *