The copper smelter development in Indonesia is one of the most significant industrial projects of its kind in the region. It has been designed as a complete green field complex that can receive copper concentrate and convert it into high purity refined copper. The scale of the project and the variety of processing units make it a landmark development in the non ferrous metal sector.

The complex brings together many advanced systems. These include flash smelting and converting furnaces, anode furnaces, a modern anode casting facility, a copper electro refinery and an integrated sulphuric acid plant. A full gas handling and cleaning system supports safe and efficient operation. Utility systems such as sea water cooling, process water, wastewater treatment, compressed air and an air separation plant are also part of the project. The site includes extensive infrastructure such as roads, drainage improvement, a river diversion, administrative buildings and a helipad.

This entire development strengthens local capability and supports long term industrial growth in the region. It creates employment, encourages skill development and establishes a strong foundation for downstream copper based industries.

TCE's Scope

TCE has played a central role throughout the project by serving as the Owner Engineer. The support begins from the early engineering stages and continues through construction, commissioning and plant handover. The engineering team has carried out detail engineering for all major units, reviewed designs from other contractors and conducted systematic gap analysis to ensure that all systems meet international standards.

Procurement support was another important responsibility. TCE prepared technical specifications, evaluated vendor proposals and assisted the owner in making procurement decisions. Inspection and expediting services ensured that materials and equipment were delivered with the required quality and within schedule.

During construction, TCE supervised site activities, monitored progress, resolved technical issues and ensured strong safety and quality practices. Commissioning assistance was provided for every unit. The team also supported performance guarantee tests and is guiding the final handover to the operating team. In short, the TCE scope covers every technical, advisory and supervisory aspect necessary to bring a complex smelter project to full operation.

Impact

The value added by TCE is visible across the entire project. Several optimisation decisions helped simplify the plant without affecting performance. Storage systems were redesigned for more effective use of space. Some facilities such as the slag concentrator and iron sand handling system were removed after detailed study showed that simpler arrangements would provide the same results.

Improvements were introduced in major process units such as the copper electro refinery and the precious metal refinery. The redesign of the sea water cooling circuit improved energy use and long term reliability. The power sourcing and distribution system was refined to support stable operation.

These engineering improvements, combined with strong construction supervision, helped reduce rework, improve safety and maintain project momentum. As a result, all major units have now been commissioned successfully. Performance guarantee tests have been completed for almost every facility, with only the precious metal refinery in its final stages of testing.

The project now stands as a modern and efficient copper processing complex that will serve as a strategic asset for the region for many years to come.