Optimization of the soldering process by the DMAIC methodology

The chapter presents use of the DMAIC method for the analysis and improvement of the process of soldering pins in a plug connecting a bundle of wires to the board of a controller, part of the steering system of a passenger car. The main problem in the soldering process - an unsatisfactory share of bad soldered connections between the board and the plug and the instability of that number - was identified using a five-phase improvement process. Key points and main causes of the defect were pointed out, and process improvement measures suggested. Due to the analysis conducted and the correct implementation of improvement measures the share of defective connections has been decreased twofold.