Quality Policy

Quality is defined as conformance to requirements.  Quality is achieved through prevention, not detection.  Using Statistical Processing Control Midwest Container has laid down the foundation for Continuous Improvement.  Using such techniques as Control Charts, Capability Indices and Process Flow Charts. Special variation can be found and corrected before nonconforming product is produced. 

To ensure quality all characteristics and processes inherit to container production must adhere to a rigid standard.  These standards include but are not limited to process capabilities of Cp>1.33, Cpk>1.33 and a Cpm>1.33.  These indices shall conform to the definitions found in the Midwest Container Quality Assurance Procedural Manual.

As a customer, we sincerely hope that you will see in Midwest Container, a unique commitment to quality that provides the foundation for a lasting, and mutually beneficial relationship.

Fig. 1 Control Charts

While variation is inherent in the blow molding process, any characteristics that may drift out of control are immediately fixed and their assignable cause and corrective action is automatically logged in a pareto chart for use in the Continuous Improvement Program.

Fig. 2 Pareto on Causes

Fig. 3 Pareto on Actions

Continuous Improvement

Using our SPC system to make pareto charts, Midwest container strives for continuous improvement.  These charts allow Midwest Container to focus on the issues that cause the most variation.  The Quality Department also uses Histograms on all characteristics.  This allows easy viewing of where the process is centered allowing Midwest to keep the process centered and in control at all times.

Fig. 4 Capability Report

Centralized support network

Using a centralized server all quality documents are easily obtained by quality personnel.  All drawings, first article and setup sheets are linked to gather to ensure accurate metrics and continuous improvement.  This also allows any revisions to be simple and emphasizes an environment of continuous improvement.

Fig. 5 Bottle Drawing