Statistical Engineering Examples in the Engine Oil Additive Industry

• Activity Number: 62
• Type: Topic Contributed
• Date/Time: Sunday, July 31, 2011 : 4:00 PM to 5:50 PM
• Sponsor: Section on Physical and Engineering Sciences
• Author(s): Philip Rocco Scinto*+ and Jim Rutherford
• Companies: The Lubrizol Corporation and Chevron Oronite Company LLC
• Keywords: Statistical Engineering ; Engine Oil

Abstract

Over the past several years the concept of statistical engineering has been defined, but answers to the Hoerl and Snee question/challenge as to who is practicing statistical engineering are limited. The Engine Oil Industry in North America operates through several different committees, organizations and trade associations and represents an excellent example of statistical engineering in practice. Over the past 20 years, statisticians from ally and rival companies have participated in numerous panels to create systems, practices and protocols that serve the greater good of the industry. Statistical methods, tools and logic form the basis for these practices and protocols that were put into place to solve problems and meet the needs of engineers, chemists, marketers and consumers. These systems are an important part of the process of how engine oil is tested, approved, and ultimately put into a motor vehicle.