QMB Indonesia Nickel Resource Project

Overview

Collaborating between GEM and HollySys for Sustainable Nickel Production

QMB Indonesia Nickel Resource Project, is located in the Indonesia Morowali Industrial Park (IMIP) in Central Sulawesi, Indonesia, home to the world’s largest nickel reserves. Designed by GEM, a global leader in urban mining and a key player in the new energy industry, the project spans 106 hectares with a total investment exceeding 3 billion USD. It is Indonesia’s first world-class “Hydrometallurgy and New Energy Materials Engineering Technology Research Center” and features the world’s first full industrial chain from laterite nickel ore to MHP - nickel sulfate crystals - electro-nickel - ternary precursor - ternary cathode materials. The project is expected to produce 150 KTA of nickel metal in MHP (Mixed Hydroxide Precipitate), 60 KTA of nickel-cobalt-manganese sulfate crystals, and ternary precursor and cathode materials.

“HollySys demonstrated exceptional expertise in technical planning and on-the-spot problem-solving. Their deep technical knowledge and high level of professionalism were evident throughout the project. What particularly stood out was their ability to perform under pressure while consistently delivering outstanding results. It was remarkable to witness their agility in adapting to challenges and ensuring that all aspects of the project remained on track, even in the face of significant difficulties.”

General Manager

PT. QMB NEW ENERGY MATERIALS

Solutions

Powering Stable and Efficient Operations with HollySys Solutions

• 90,000+ I/O

• 267 Cabinets

• 225 Intelligent Data Transmission Units (iDTU)

HollySys provided the project HOLLiAS® MACS DCS, Industrial Optical Bus Control System (OCS) and Emergency Trip System (ETS). The systems support five project phases, along with downstream production lines for ternary and hydroxyl nickel, battery materials, and auxiliary systems, including power plants, beneficiation, sulfuric acid, and water treatment.

The high-pressure acid leaching (HPAL) workshop is equipped with the world’s largest autoclave, boasting a capacity of 1,168 cubic meters. The process integrates proven techniques, including cyclic leaching, countercurrent decantation (CCD) washing, iron and aluminum removal, and nickel-cobalt precipitation. By utilizing HollySys’ advanced control systems, the facility achieves stable and efficient high-pressure operations, which are essential for maintaining superior product quality.

The project also faced a unique set of challenges, including a widely dispersed on-site installation layout, tight construction timelines, and a significant increase in international copper cable prices. In response to these issues, HollySys proposed its OCS, which effectively lowered both construction expenses and labor demands. The adoption of OCS not only resulted in considerable cable savings but also expedited the construction schedule. This approach garnered strong client approval for its efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

“This project has been a testament to the power of collaboration and adaptability. By embracing a partnership approach and aligning closely with GEM's vision, we were able to deliver exceptional results. I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to GEM for their trust, support, and shared commitment to innovation.”

Mr. Martin Wang

Project Manager

HollySys (Asia Pacific) Pte. Ltd.

Results

Driving Green Transformation Together

Supported by HollySys, this high-standard production line of the project achieves safe, eco-friendly, and intelligent operations. Precise process optimization improved product quality, while efficient resource management cut costs. Despite extreme weather and pandemic-related disruptions, HollySys delivered and commissioned the systems on time. After three years, GEM established a world-leading hydrometallurgy and new energy materials base in Indonesia, pioneering battery material production directly from nickel ore and driving the country's transition to the new energy era. Looking ahead, HollySys will continue to enhance product quality, integrate AI for smarter solutions, and develop advanced systems to drive sustainable innovation.