C-chart
In statistical quality control, the c-chart is a type of control chart used to monitor "count"-type data, typically total number of nonconformities per unit. It is also occasionally used to monitor the total number of events occurring in a given unit of time.
The c-chart differs from the p-chart in that it accounts for the possibility of more than one nonconformity per inspection unit, and that it requires a fixed sample size. The p-chart models "pass"/"fail"-type inspection only, while the c-chart give the ability to distinguish between 2 items which fail inspection because of one fault each and the same two items failing inspection with 5 faults each; in the former case, the p-chart will show two non-conformant items, while the c-chart will show 10 faults.
Nonconformities may also be tracked by type or location which can prove helpful in tracking down assignable causes.
Examples of processes suitable for monitoring with a c-chart include:
- Monitoring the number of voids per inspection unit in injection molding or casting processes
- Monitoring the number of discrete components that must be re-soldered per printed circuit board
- Monitoring the number of product returns per day
- The number of opportunities or potential locations for nonconformities is very large
- The probability of nonconformity at any location is small and constant
- The inspection procedure is same for each sample and is carried out consistently from sample to sample