VARIATION IN MEAN WEIGHT OF A BOX OF MANGOES BY STATISTICAL PROCESS CONTROL

Abstract

The culture of fruits in the mid-Vale do São Francisco, Brazil, is one of the main sources of income for several small, medium and big producers. The export of fruits (mangoes, for instance) may be highlighted in Brazil due to the extensive area cultivated, high production volume, excellent mango quality and high income. So that product quality may be maintained, the statistical process control on processing and on the variation of mean box weight is greatly relevant for a good harvest and the maintenance of sales. Statistical process control was applied in a case study involving a mango packing house in Juazeiro BA Brazil, to measure and assess the weighing process of mango boxes and how variability affects the final product. Mapping of a dynamic process coupled to the employment of quality tools reduces losses and faults and guarantees predictability, standardization and the product´s final quality.