Experience and technology combined to ensure safer operations and minimize risk in mining
Jesús Vergara, hydraulic engineer at BRASS Perú, shares his experience and the application of advanced technology in the mining industry. In this interview, he highlights key differentiators in the BRASS market, the technologies that have shaped pipeline design, tailings management, and pipeline integrity, as well as the value of the international consultants of BRASS developing high-impact technical solutions.
1. From your perspective and experience in the industry, what sets BRASS apart as an engineering company in the mining sector?
What sets BRASS apart in the mining sector is its horizontal work structure, backed directly by our international consultants, Roy Betinol and Luis Navarro. Their extensive experience provides a global vision and field-proven solutions, which in turn foster agile decision-making and collaborative work. BRASS also stands out for the excellence of its hydraulic models and innovation in the development of proprietary software, which together ensure high-precision and efficient results. All of this is reinforced by an exceptional work environment, with a friendly and committed team that promotes continuous learning and customer satisfaction. This combination of international experience, technical quality, and organizational culture is what truly differentiates BRASS.
2. What BRASS technologies or methodologies would you highlight as the most effective on the market to ensure proper tailings management and reduced pipeline integrity risks?
To ensure optimal handling of the various fluids in the mining sector and minimize risks to pipeline integrity, I would highlight BRASS’s transient simulator, custom-developed for each project. It enables dynamic simulations under adverse scenarios, going beyond the capabilities of commercial software. We complement this tool with the B-VOYAGER® device for internal pipeline inspection, the B-PIMS® system for integrated pipeline integrity management, and the B-LDS® software for early leak detection. This suite of technologies supports both the design evaluation phase and the continuous monitoring of existing pipelines, ensuring greater operational safety and extending asset life.
3. Is there a particular experience where collaboration between offices was key to solving a complex technical challenge?
In every project I’ve participated in, collaboration between BRASS LATAM offices has been fundamental for solving the technical challenges that arise—mainly thanks to the support of our international consultants and the broad experience of the hydraulic teams across offices. I would highlight a specific project developed for Compañía Minera Doña Inés de Collahuasi. While I was working on the transient analysis from the Peru office, the Chile team was performing a flushing analysis of the system. They needed the rupture disc activation setpoint derived from my simulation. Thanks to direct and fluid communication, we shared data in real time and coordinated both studies simultaneously. With this information, the Chile team was able to adjust their hydraulic parameters to ensure safe system operation.
4. What motivates you most about working in the hydraulic discipline of BRASS, and what impact do you think your work has on the mining industry?
What motivates me most is the constant learning within BRASS’s hydraulic discipline, where I’ve discovered applications of my training in the mining sector that I never imagined. I value the generosity of my colleagues in sharing knowledge and the open dialogue where all ideas are equally valued. This collaborative culture drives my professional growth and enhances the quality of our solutions. Regarding the impact of my work, I believe that by optimizing designs and managing critical fluids, we help achieve safer and more reliable operations, which promotes responsible resource use and reduces environmental impact. This reinforces trust in hydraulic systems and contributes to the sustainability of the mining industry in the region.