Monthly Tech-Tip | No tracking! No ads! |
In almost all cases, it is better to physically locate your quality control (QC) lab and studio close to or integrated with the clay body production facility. Here's why:
1. Faster Feedback Loop: Problems in production can be tested and addressed immediately. QC staff can pull samples directly from the line and respond in real time.
2. Improved Collaboration: Informal conversations and direct observation encourage faster recognition of issues and shared ownership of product quality. Production staff can observe lab tests and better understand why certain process controls matter.
3. Better Testing Relevance: Tests (throwing, casting, drying, glazing, firing) reflect the exact materials and conditions used in production, not outdated or transported samples. Factors surrounding run production are known.
4. Shared Culture of Quality: When the lab is physically distant, it can become an “ivory tower.” On-site, it becomes part of the process — not an external check, but a partner. Visibility of the lab reinforces its role in continuous improvement.
5. Lower Cost and Logistics: Less delay, double handling, and easier scheduling. Equipment and space can be shared.
This picture has its own page with more detail, click here to see it.
A kaolin shipment just came in. "UnReady Freddie" is panicking. He thinks he remembers that products made with the last shipment were lacking plasticity and the fired color was off. He is going to have to come up with different lame excuses for complaining customers this time.
"Ready Freddie" has Insight-Live and has collected years of data on incoming shipments in one searchable place. He knows what to check on each and has fired bars, in-mix tests, particle size checks, data sheets, lots of pictures, notes, etc. He also has traceability - he knows what material batch went into what product. He works with production to do material lot tracking and with purchasing to keep suppliers aware he is testing. Because Ready Freddie knows how materials vary he can compensate recipes and processes so customers see a consistent product.
UnReady Freddie has a few spreadsheets somewhere. But he is busy with other things. Who do you want in charge of product consistency (and company reputation)? Here is what to do next: Have your technician study the page "Testing a New Load of EP Kaolin" (link below). You will be hearing from him/her soon.
Buy me a coffee and we can talk