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 centered 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.