Tomasz Derkowski: FMEA is essentially about reliability and, more specifically, about predicting possible defects or problems, their causes and effects, and ruling them out even before a project is started. It is a quality management method that in the end allows the documentation of all possible paths affecting the reliability of a specific solution.
Due to the complexity of the assembly or just the sensitivity of the components, it is of crucial importance to anticipate possible problems in the case of a PCB assembly service for electronic components. Some components can be installed with gloves on and left unprotected, while for others, appropriate humidity exposure parameters are required. At all times, it must be remembered that the product that goes from Elhurt EMS to the customer is a component of a larger unit and will most likely be closed in a casing – another argument, though not the last, in favour of the use of this method in the manufacture of electronics. 
TM: In the case of the FMEA used at Elhurt EMS, we are dealing with process FMEA. Using the methodology, we look, on a project-by-project basis, at potential failures that could compromise the product our customer receives. When working with electronic components, it is necessary to look at the broader picture – from the receipt of the component, its appropriate storage and delivery to the production, assembly and testing stages, right through to packaging and shipping. Another critical aspect is the wrong choice of supplier or problems in the supply chain, which can lead to delays, material shortages or quality issues. Another important moment is assembly quality control. Effective control should be in place at every stage of production, allowing defects to be detected and repaired before further processes. And ultimately, final testing of the product. This is a critical moment that ensures that the product meets the technical requirements and expectations of the customer before it is launched on the market.
TM: First, the FMEA analysis that we are talking about makes it possible to focus on the most important areas of risk and to introduce preventive measures to minimise the possibility of failure. Specific measures that I can mention include the use of high-quality electronic components that are less prone to damage and failure. They also include the use of overvoltage and short-circuit protection, such as fuses or protective circuits that protect systems from excessive voltage or current during assembly. Equally important is the use of ESD protection systems. At Elhurt EMS, we strictly follow procedures – from wearing anti-static footwear and special clothing, to using specialised anti-static tools and packaging, and regularly inspecting equipment to minimise the risk of ESD.
Performance and validation testing is very important in the manufacturing process to ensure that the product meets the specified quality standards and can withstand extreme operating conditions. Another important measure is to control the assembly process and check electrical connections for consistency through functional testing or insulation testing.
TM: Using this method requires a skilled team and constant monitoring and updating. However, I observe that from a quality control perspective, it is a really valuable tool. If managed well, it can bring a number of benefits – mainly for the client, who is assured that the supplier has control over many aspects of the project. It is important to remember that the use of FMEA also has the effect of saving time and costs for the production company, so all the more we can see the benefits of using and implementing the method continuously and for every project.
TM: For the customer, delivery time and quality of workmanship will always be important. As a supplier, we aim to meet our customer’s requirements but also to inspire their confidence, and we can prove this by, among other things, timeliness and reliability. So any tool that helps us achieve these is valuable. The projects we undertake are often very demanding. We manufacture for industries such as industrial electronics, power and energy, marine electronics and security, telecommunications or measuring instruments. What we offer our customers is the fact that, by applying FMEA, we are able to effectively fight to exclude errors, which will, of course, have the effect of maximising the reliability of the end product. The FMEA analysis provides an opportunity to map out potential defects that could occur in the future, therefore directly avoiding the losses resulting from releasing a defective product onto the market, and indirectly positively influencing the brand image.