The group of students was accompanied by Chemical Engineering lecturer Kelvin Hadinatan, S.T., M.Sc., who facilitated the integration between the theories studied in class and the actual processes and technologies applied in the field. In his explanation, he emphasized the importance of industrial visits as an applied learning experience, considering that the palm oil industry has a complex process chain and continually developing technologies.
Upon arrival at the location, the students were welcomed by the operational team of PTPN IV Rambutan Palm Oil Mill and received a general presentation regarding the company profile, production capacity, and the standard operating procedures used in processing fresh fruit bunches (FFB). The participants were then guided through the production flow, starting from the FFB receiving station, sterilization, threshing, pressing, oil clarification, and up to the refining of final products in the form of Crude Palm Oil (CPO) and palm kernel.
In addition to the main production processes, the students also had the opportunity to learn about the wastewater management system (POME), the utilization of solid waste such as shells and fiber as boiler fuel, as well as the implementation of Occupational Health, Safety, and Environmental (OHSE) principles within the factory area. This explanation provided a comprehensive perspective on how the palm oil industry maintains process efficiency while still paying attention to sustainability aspects.
Throughout the activity, the students demonstrated high enthusiasm by actively engaging in discussions and asking questions regarding energy efficiency, process optimization, and the operational challenges faced by the factory in maintaining product quality. PTPN IV welcomed this enthusiasm and expressed hope that the visit would strengthen collaboration between industry and the academic community.