Sulzer Chemtech’s Processing Technology Enables Green Tire and Rubber Production

Introduction

Sulzer has once again demonstrated its leadership in separation and mixing technology by delivering a customized mass transfer solution to PT Enerco RPO Internasional’s new plant in Batam, Indonesia. This facility is dedicated to the production of treated distillate aromatic extract (TDAE), a key ingredient for eco-friendly rubber process oils (RPOs) used in the tire and rubber industries.

World’s Largest Kuhni™ Agitated Extraction Column

At the heart of the plant is the world’s largest agitated extraction column, the Kuhni™ (ECR), designed and built by Sulzer. With an impressive diameter of 2.8 meters (9 ft 2 in) and a height of 34 meters (111 ft 6 in), this advanced piece of equipment enables efficient removal of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) from base oil, producing TDAE with low PAH content—a safer, non-hazardous alternative to conventional DAE.

Supporting a Greener Future

Sulzer’s involvement in the project included the complete design, installation, commissioning, and start-up of the innovative processing line. This comprehensive support ensures that PT Enerco RPO Internasional can maximize production efficiency, reliability, and output quality, reinforcing its position as a leading global producer of TDAE.

Roy Indra Salim, Commercial Director of Enerco, highlights the significance of this partnership:

“The combination of PT Enerco RPO Internasional’s advanced patented extraction technology with Sulzer Chemtech’s Kuhni™ Agitated Columns has been key to achieving optimum performance and production efficiency. Our TDAE plant in Batam is the largest single facility of its kind in the world, delivering high and consistent quality TDAE to enhance the security of supply for green RPOs globally.”

Driving Innovation and Sustainability

By leveraging Sulzer’s proven extraction technology, PT Enerco RPO Internasional is setting new standards for the tire and rubber sectors. The plant’s capabilities support the global shift toward greener, more sustainable manufacturing practices, ensuring a reliable supply of eco-friendly RPOs for years to come.

Contact us to learn more about how Sulzer’s separation and mixing solutions can transform your production processes and support your sustainability goals.