Quality Assurance, Uncompromising Excellence

August 30, 2023 in Blog

To achieve and sustain excellence in the Indian automotive industry, TCCI understands the paramount importance of product quality in the manufacturing environment. The integration of technical and behavioral approaches plays a crucial role in ensuring quality standards, and TCCI’s commitment to maintaining its reputation as a provider of superior products is exemplified by its dedication to fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation. By implementing robust quality assurance processes, leveraging advanced manufacturing techniques, and empowering its employees to contribute to the pursuit of excellence, TCCI ensures that its products consistently meet and exceed customer expectations.

TCCI is well-positioned for the future in India, where the developing economy has a projected average Growth Domestic Product (GDP) growth of 6.3% by 2030 and is in position to become the third-largest economy globally. The automotive industry plays a significant role in India’s economy, contributing nearly 6% to the GDP and 35% to the manufacturing GDP. The electric vehicle (EV) market, in particular, is expected to experience substantial growth with a projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 49% between 2020 and 2030. Furthermore, the market size for electric vehicles (EVs) has experienced a notable expansion and heightened attention due to the recent announcement by the Union Road Transport minister in India which mandates the inclusion of air-conditioning (AC) systems in truck cabins. TCCI’s focus on electric compressors and early preparation for EV production puts the company at the forefront of the EV game in India, and ensuring the highest quality standards in this rapidly evolving landscape is paramount for TCCI.

Ashok Deshwal, Deputy General Manager of Quality Assurance at TCCI in India, explains why quality engineering is so crucial. “Quality is at the centre of almost everything in life and more so in manufacturing,” said Deshwal. “It helps maintain the company’s integrity. When a customer agrees to buy your product, they trust you to deliver the best.”

To ensure this optimal level of quality, it is imperative that a comprehensive set of predetermined standards are met. Adhering to Advance Product Quality Planning (APQP) helps establish quality standards, and selecting reliable business partners ensures that incoming parts meet specifications. Internal controls, such as inspections and process controls, along with robust process designs using Failure Modes & Effect Analysis (FMEA) methodology, contribute to maintaining quality. Quality tools like Six Sigma and Design of Experiments (DOE) are employed to address issues and improve processes. Involving all employees in quality activities and encouraging their input further strengthens product quality.

“We operate on the Japanese principle of Kaizen, which means improving continuously by making small changes every day to improve operational efficiency,” said Deshwal. “Thus, I spend 25-30% of my daily time on the Shop floor, reviewing processes and speaking directly to the operators.”

Quality assurance in times of new technology becomes even more critical as advancements reshape industries and disrupt traditional practices. With the rapid pace of technological innovation, organizations must navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by emerging technologies while ensuring that quality remains at the forefront.

“The biggest challenge in this field is keeping pace with technology and being constantly innovative in order to provide the best quality whilst incurring the least possible cost in the least possible time using the best possible technology,” explained Deshwal. “Hence, our primary focus lies in prioritizing quality, inventory management, and preparing for the electric market, demonstrating our commitment to goal-driven and forward-thinking approaches.”