Balikpapan - For Ahmad Ridho Akranata, an alumnus of Materials and Metallurgical Engineering (TMM) at ITK, class of 2013, damaged materials are not the end—they are the beginning of new value. As a Product Development Engineer at PT Komatsu Remanufacturing Asia, he focuses on the remanufacturing process, which aims to restore worn or damaged heavy equipment components so they can be reused with performance close to new products.

Through the salvaging process, Ridho transforms components that were once considered scrap into valuable assets again. This approach not only reduces production costs but also contributes to lowering carbon emissions (TCO₂), saving energy, and minimizing industrial waste. It highlights the important role of material engineering in supporting a more efficient and sustainable industry.

In product development, material selection plays a critical role. Incorrect material choices can directly affect performance and even lead to component failure. Therefore, a strong understanding of material mechanical properties becomes the foundation of every engineering decision.

In practice, Ridho conducts comprehensive analyses before determining repair methods, including evaluating material type, required mechanical properties, and the component’s working environment. This approach ensures that the repair results are not only optimal but also efficient in terms of time and cost.

Innovation is also a key part of his professional journey. Together with his team, Ridho developed a design modification to address wear issues in heavy equipment components, successfully improving durability and performance. This innovation earned a Golden Prize at the global Komatsu Group convention.

The core competencies that support his work include an understanding of mechanical properties, basic metallurgy, welding techniques, and failure analysis. These skills enable a material engineer to deliver solutions that are not only technically sound but also practical for industrial applications.

Ultimately, Ahmad Ridho Akranata’s journey demonstrates that materials are not merely objects, but potential that can be engineered into new value. From campus to industry, his contribution reflects a commitment to creating solutions that are efficient, sustainable, and impactful.