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Quality: An Ongoing Journey, Not the Final Destination
In today’s competitive market, quality is the lifeline that sustains customer trust, operational efficiency and long-term growth. It reduces costs associated with defects, minimises waste and enhances productivity. Customers seek companies that deliver superior quality, innovative designs and efficient solutions. Therefore, a robust quality management system not only fosters customer loyalty but also drives a company’s competitive advantage.
Quality is an intrinsic part of KBL’s organisational culture. Our journey towards excellence is supported by strategic investments, cutting-edge technology and a relentless focus on continuous improvement. A fundamental pillar of this journey is the implementation of Total Productive Maintenance (TPM), which modernises and debottlenecks operations, ensuring consistent deliveries and enhancing productivity while maintaining environmental sustainability. These efforts align with global sustainability goals, focusing on reducing carbon footprints and combating climate change.
“First Time Right, Every Time Right”
Our Quality Assurance department has adopted a “First-Time-Right, Every time Right” initiative, focusing on prevention, robust processes and strengthened supplier partnerships. By leveraging tools such as the QM Matrix and QC Story, we ensure sustainable root cause analysis and continuous performance improvement. AIAG core tools, regular audits and ongoing training help minimise rejection rates, while our front-end service engineers are equipped with advanced quality tools for effective problem-solving. This holistic approach reinforces a culture of quality and ensures we exceed customer expectations.
Advanced Infrastructure and Technological Investments
To enhance quality, KBL has invested in advanced infrastructure and technology. The High-Pressure Molding Line (HPML), commissioned in August 2023 at our Dewas foundry, has improved both quality and productivity. An induction heater for KVM motor bodies has enhanced manufacturing capabilities, while the installation of robotic welding machines ensures superior weld overlay quality. Digital transformation has also played a crucial role in our quality initiatives. Strategic investments in Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT) and 3D Printing have significantly impacted product quality and created additional revenue streams.
Awards and Recognition: A Testament to Excellence
Our commitment to excellence is reflected in the recognition and awards we have received. The Sanand Plant won the ‘Par Excellence Award’ for the 5S Kaizen Case Study at the 9th National Conclave organised by the Quality Circle Forum of India (QCFI). Similarly, the Kaniyur Plant received a Gold Award for a quality case study and two Silver Awards for productivity improvement from the Coimbatore Productivity Council. Our Total Quality Management (TQM) enabled manufacturing facilities are certified under ISO 9001:2015 for Quality Management, ISO 14001:2015 for Environmental Management, ISO 45001:2018 for Occupational Health and Safety and ISO 50001:2018 for Energy Management.
Continuous improvement is at the heart of our transformation journey. Programmes like
5S Methodology and Kaizen encourage small, incremental changes that yield significant results. These initiatives, combined with employee engagement and training, empower our teams to innovate and adapt to market shifts.
Our Quality Month celebration this November was a time to reflect on our achievements and look forward to future advancements. Let’s remember that QUALITY is not a GOAL –it’s an ongoing JOURNEY!
