AVERAGE OUTGOING QUALITY LIMIT Meaning and
Definition
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The term "average outgoing quality limit" refers to a statistical concept used in quality control and manufacturing processes. It is commonly abbreviated as AOQL.
The average outgoing quality limit represents the maximum acceptable level of defective or non-conforming products that can be allowed to pass through a production process, ultimately reaching the customer. It serves as a benchmark for assessing the quality of a product or a batch of products before they are released for distribution.
AOQL is determined by taking into account the potential sources of variation and the overall quality levels desired by both the manufacturer and the customer. The limit is established based on statistical analysis and quality standards, such as specified in international quality management systems like ISO 9001.
The purpose of the AOQL is to prevent a high number of non-conforming products from being delivered to customers. By setting an upper limit on the average quality level acceptable for outgoing products, the manufacturer aims to ensure consistent and satisfactory product quality, meeting or exceeding customer expectations.
The calculation of AOQL considers factors such as sample size, acceptable quality level (AQL), and the producer's risk. It helps in designing effective quality assurance plans and control procedures, including inspection and testing methods, to identify and remove defective products and prevent their distribution to consumers.
