Recent research reveals that the implementation of Statistical Process Control (SPC) can help welding Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara, identify and reduce defects in sickle production in a structured manner. The study, conducted by Akbar Tawaqqal and Muhammad Rivaldi Harjian from the University of Mataram in June 2026, highlights the importance of data-driven quality control systems for the sustainability of small businesses in the manufacturing sector.
Background and Challenges
In small manufacturing industries, product quality issues often result in material losses and a decline in business reputation. Sickle products, as essential agricultural tools on Lombok Island, require consistent standards of sharpness, dimensional accuracy, and material durability. However, many welding MSMEs still rely on individual habits without documented Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), making quality variation difficult to control.
Research Methodology
The researchers conducted physical observations and recorded data over 20 production periods, using a total of 400 sickle units as samples. Analysis was performed using four statistical quality control tools: a check sheet for data collection, a Pareto diagram to prioritize defect types, a p-control chart (p-chart) to monitor process stability, and a cause-and-effect (fishbone) diagram to identify the root causes of problems.
Key Findings
The research results indicate an 8.00% defect rate, with the following breakdown of defect types:
- Crack: 43.75% (the most dominant type of defect).
- Uneven Thickness: 31.25%.
- Dull Edge: 25.00%.
Although the production process is statistically within control limits, the Defect Per Million Opportunities (DPMO) value of 26,666.7 indicates that process capability remains well below competitive industry standards and requires significant improvement.
Implications for MSMEs
The fishbone diagram identified the absence of written SOPs as the most fundamental cause of product defects. Other factors include operator fatigue, worn welding machines, and inconsistent raw materials. The researchers recommend three primary improvement measures:
- SOP Development: Creating written standards for welding processes and dimensional inspection.
- Preventive Maintenance: Scheduling routine machine maintenance to ensure welding current stability.
- Quality Culture: Training operators and implementing routine quality monitoring using p-control charts.
Author Profiles:
- Akbar Tawaqqal: Lecturer/Researcher at the Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Mataram.
- Muhammad Rivaldi Harjian: Researcher at the Department of Electrical Engineering, University of Mataram.
Research Source:
Tawaqqal, A., & Harjian, M. R. (2026). Analysis of Sickle Product Defects Using Statistical Process Control in a Welding MSME. International Journal of Integrated Science and Technology (IJIST), 4(6), 337-350. DOI:
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