Aplicação de ferramentas da qualidade e metodologia SIX Sigma em uma estação de tratamento de efluentes do estado de Alagoas

Abstract

This work focuses on the application of quality tools as methodologies for the evaluation of non-conformities and continuous improvement of a Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) located in the state of Alagoas. The work highlights the increasing importance of sustainability and effective management of WWTPs in the current context. DMAIC, a central component of Six Sigma, was applied to improve the stability and efficiency of domestic wastewater treatment processes, whose phases - Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve and Control were punctually evaluated in the optimization of processes. In this sense, for the analysis of the WWTP structure and the measurement of performance factors, the tools were applied: Pareto Diagram, Control Chart, GUT Matrix, 5S and Verification Sheet. This final course work emphasizes that the application of Six Sigma in the studied WWTP allowed a detailed study of its operation, identifying several opportunities for improvement. The use of quality tools proved essential for the stages of DMAIC to be evaluated in the GUT Matrix where non-conformities were listed, in this order of priority: overflows, corrosion in equipment, excess foam in the treated effluent, odor control and environmental legality. Applying the quality tools within the DMAIC Methodology it was possible to point out the root causes and their effects, enabling the identification of actions and solutions focused on continuous improvement, such as: training and developments with employees, preventive and corrective maintenance of equipment, statistical control of process efficiency (BOD) and importance of adoption in the WWTP operation routine. As for the overflow, which presented greater priority in terms of gravity, urgency and tendency and directly affects the aforementioned non-conformities, the results showed the need for real-time process stability control, adopting basic quality tools. The proposed solutions can be implemented and evaluated using performance indicators and quality metrics. Although the implementation of Six Sigma requires a significant initial investment in training and skill development, the long-term benefits, such as cost reduction, quality improvement and environmental sustainability, are considered superior to initial costs. In short, this work presents Six Sigma as a valuable strategy for WWTPs seeking to improve their operations and minimize their environmental impact.