Rio Tinto Alcan relies upon “tight networks” of experts for successful projects

With an eye on successful down-the-road completion of its production facilities, industry giant Rio Tinto Alcan pays close attention to the initial steps of project definition. “It is during these initial stages that we look to develop tight networks with people and teams from the required fields of expertise,” says Jean Simon, the Jonquiere, Quebec-based president of Primary Metal-North America. “Our experience has shown us that for our projects to thrive, quality work is required from every discipline involved, right from the start.” Speaking at a seminar during the annual conference of the International Federation of Consulting Engineers, Simon said his company’s strategy hinges in part on bringing together “highly efficient’ engineering firms and Rio Tinto Alcan management teams. “In practical terms, when we decide to build plants that will operate for 50 years and more, we have to respect each and every stakeholder,” he said. “They play a prime role in the achievement of the best possible project and its long-term sustainability." Once the right people and organizations “are in place and working hand-in-hand,” Rio Tinto Alcan tables a process based on key steps that help to better define its projects before they are carried out. During the construction phase, engineering firms “will make sure construction goes as planned,” said Simon, who has a degree in physics engineering from Laval University and joined Alcan in 1979. “They will make sure quality work is being done, set the scene for efficient interaction between the parties involved and ensure a seamless transition between the construction and start-up phases.” Also at this stage, operational teams fine-tune certain work practices and procedures so that when construction is completed, they are in a position to take over “and make all the necessary pre-operational verifications and ensure a smooth and safe plant start-up.” In Quebec, Rio Tinto Alcan recently completed a $225 million “spent potlining” treatment pilot plant. Start-up operations are currently underway. The company currently has a $2.5 billion smelter upgrading project under way at Kitimat in British Columbia. Rio Tinto Alcan has operations in 21 countries. －－PATRICIA WILLIAMS