As a company with ISO 9001 and IATF 16949 (automotive) quality certifications—and pursuing our AS9100D (aerospace) certification—we understand that having the best quality management system (QMS) on paper will only get us so far.

We can have regular audits to maintain our certifications, but what really matters is building and executing quality processes on the shop floor. Because the parts rolling out our doors every day are proof that we live up to our quality standards. Our continued commitment is to ensure all our customers see and know the benefits of the quality of products they receive from Rathburn. It’s why we care so much about having fewer than 50 defective parts per million (DPPM).

Executing well on the shop floor for Rathburn starts with detailed written work instructions based on established processes, well-trained operators, and collaboration between team members. If any quality concerns are identified, each incident is tracked as a non-conformance through a root cause analysis and corrective action process to prevent reoccurrences, including across any related processes. Additionally, all first runs are reviewed through a lessons-learned exercise, which includes a team-based approach.

We practice continuous improvement in all quality processes. Rathburn employees are encouraged to submit improvement ideas via a “blue card” system, where all ideas are reviewed and considered by management. We don’t just encourage this. We reward those who contribute to our success. Because most of our best ideas come from the shop floor, especially for improvement within the work cell.

We value the rigor and process-oriented approach that the ISO/IATF/AS systems require, and continuously reinforce a customer-driven culture of quality from top management to the shop floor. What this means is that we never stop looking for ways to improve ourselves. New measures include team feasibility reviews utilizing all the collective skill and intellect of the team, inspection plans based on control plans, and using gauge R&R to determine gauging methods.

And true to our commitment to continuous improvement, we are not stopping. There are always new challenges presented with every new project and the equipment we use to get the work done. If there is a better way, we’ll find it. If there is a smarter process or way for our teams to work together, we’ll find those as well. It’s the way we work at Rathburn and have for more than 40 years.

About Rathburn Tool & Manufacturing

Established in 1983, Rathburn Tool & Manufacturing delivers precision-machined, manufacturable solutions made possible by a combination of technology and experienced teams for companies that need their products and equipment to work well every time.

Watch this video to learn more about Rathburn Tool’s commitment to quality. For more information about our capabilities and equipment, please reach out to us at info@rathburnmachining.com.