Title: Application of quality tools and process automation in a PVC analysis laboratory

Authors: Kátlyn Renata Santos Alves; Éverton Hansen

Addresses: Chemical Engineering Department, Universidade do Vale do Rio dos Sinos, 950 Unisinos av., São Leopoldo, RS, Brazil ' Chemical Engineering Department, Universidade do Vale do Rio dos Sinos, 950 Unisinos av., São Leopoldo, RS, Brazil; Chemical Engineering Department, Centro Universitário Ritter dos Reis – Uniritter, Porto Alegre, Brazil

Abstract: Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) laboratory analyses are used to evaluate the composition and ensure the quality and applicability of each PVC product. The quality, productivity, and reliability of the results delivered by these analyses demand continuous improvement. This study aimed to evaluate the processes of a PVC analysis laboratory to identify opportunities for improvement, automation, and use of digital tools. Although quality tools have already been applied in laboratories, this study developed prioritisation criteria for implementing upgrades within a laboratory. Through the application of the lean manufacturing methodology, proposals for improvement and automation in the processes were identified. Results showed the need to acquire new equipment (Calender and Weather-Ometer) and a potential reduction of 1,010.25 hours of effort by analysts annually. The annual cost reduction achieved with analyst hours was US$40,991.75. The layout study minimised distances by 62.6 km per year.

Keywords: polyvinyl chloride; PVC; lean manufacturing; automation; PVC analysis.

DOI: 10.1504/IJPQM.2025.144342

International Journal of Productivity and Quality Management, 2025 Vol.44 No.2, pp.256 - 277

Received: 14 Apr 2023
Accepted: 22 Apr 2023
Published online: 10 Feb 2025 *

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