Mining and Metallurgy

Supporting the deposit of Weda Bay Nickel

At Eramet Indonesia, we leverage cutting-edge technologies, including artificial intelligence, to extract minerals with enhanced precision while minimising environmental impact. By integrating advanced connected devices, drones, and sophisticated data analytics, we optimise every stage of mineral resource management—from extraction to handling, storage, and processing.

These innovations are conceived to support efficiency, sustainability, and a reduced ecological footprint across all our operations, reflecting our commitment to responsible mining practices and environmental stewardship.

PT Weda Bay Nickel

PT Weda Bay Nickel (WBN), located in Central and East Halmahera, North Maluku, is a significant nickel mine and a key part of the Industrial Weda Bay Park (IWIP). Its activities encompass both the nickel ore extraction at the mine and its processing at an industrial facility, located within IWIP.

Eramet entered the project in May 2006 with the acquisition of Weda Bay Minerals Inc., a company listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange. Eramet conducted pre-feasibility studies in July 2006, laying the foundation for large-scale development. In  2017, Eramet strengthened the project’s growth potential by forming a strategic partnership with Tsingshan Group, the world’s leading stainless-steel producer.

Under this partnership, WBN is now owned 90% by Strand Minerals Pte Ltd — of which Eramet holds 43% and Tsingshan 57% — and 10% by Indonesia’s state-owned PT Antam Tbk. Through this structure, Eramet indirectly holds stake of 38.7% in WBN.

The Mine

The mining concession covers 47,000 hectares under a 30-year Contract of Work and includes 15 identified and evaluated deposits. Open-pit mining operations began in late 2019. Topsoil is preserved for rehabilitation, and non-usable materials are stored for later restoration.

Nickel ores are processed according to grade: high- and medium-grade saprolite is sent to WBN’s pyrometallurgical plant, while lower-grade laterites are processed in HPAL (High Pressure Acid Leach) facilities within IWIP. Production includes nickel ferroalloys (NPI) for stainless steel and battery-grade nickel in the form of Mixed Hydroxide Product (MHP), supporting both traditional and emerging markets such as electric vehicles.

The Metallurgical Plant

Serving as a core production asset within IWIP, the pyrometallurgical facility is located directly adjacent to the mining concession. It is equipped with four Rotary Kiln Electric Furnace (RKEF) lines, where ore undergoes drying, calcination, and smelting in Electric Arc Furnaces (EAF). The plant produces low-grade nickel ferroalloy containing 12–15% nickel, with an annual output capacity ranging from 30,000 to 35,000 tonnes of contained nickel. The plant benefits from the industrial park’s coastal location, which hosts a range of manufacturing activities, including other nickel processing metallurgical facilities.