Defining Stream Potential

Represented by the letter grade (A, B, C), stream potential identifies the yield that your process could deliver in a best case scenario, using the current level of variability and perfectly centred on the target. For example, consider the following process with a potential yield of 95%.

The assigned letter grade is based on the potential yield, as follows:

• Letter Grade A

  

  • High yield: 99.990%-100%

  • Fits well within specifications

    Outstanding process (e.g. Excellent technology and machinery, consistent raw materials, etc.)

  • Cp: >=1.3

• Letter Grade B

  

  • Moderate yield: 99.730%-99.990%

  • Just fits within specifications

    Satisfactory process (e.g. Good technology and machinery, fairly consistent raw materials, etc.)

  • Cp: 1.0-1.3

• Letter Grade C

  

  • Low yield: <= 99.730%

  • Significant tails exceed specifications

    Deficient process (e.g. Poor technology and machinery, inconsistent raw materials, etc.)

  • Cp: <=1.0

To learn about stream performance, please see Defining Stream Performance.