Following an accident on Tuesday night, mining company Aneka Tambang (Antam) has temporarily closed the first ferronickel smelter at its Pomalaa nickel facility in Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia.
Antam is owned by the Indonesian government.
A technical problem in the electric furnace shell caused an explosion and this damaged the furnace cover. The extent of damage is being determined. The furnace cylinder was undamaged, but repairs to the smelter are required.
One worker suffered burns. The company says no environmental damage occurred.
A full investigation into the precise cause of the accident is under way.
An initial investigation suggests that the mishap was caused by a water leak from the furnace cover beam, which supports the brick insulation of the cover. Water trapped beneath the hot ore can create volatile conditions.
Antam does not know how long ferronickel production will be suspended. The cost of repairs is also unknown.
The company says it will consider replacing the cover with an air-cooled version, if replacement is deemed necessary.
Antam expects to recover material and revenue losses within six months. The insurance providers are en route to the facility.
In order to make up for lost revenues, the company is considering an increase in the sale of other commodities.
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