Las Bambas

Las Bambas is a major open-pit mining operation located in the districts of Challhuahuacho and Progreso, in the provinces of Cotabambas and Grau, Apurímac region, Peru. The complex is situated in a high-altitude area, between 3,800 and 4,650 m. a. s. l., and is primarily focused on the production of copper and molybdenum concentrates, with gold and silver as by-products.

In this context, a series of specialized services and studies were carried out to ensure the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of the operation, as detailed below:

• Comprehensive geotechnical studies: Studies were developed at prefeasibility, feasibility, and detailed levels, including field investigations, laboratory testing, and stability analyses of slopes, waste dumps, open pits, access roads, and mining infrastructure, as well as components such as DMOs, crushers, conveyors, and power lines.
• Geophysical investigations and material characterization: Geophysical testing (seismic refraction) and subsurface characterization were carried out to support geotechnical designs and optimize infrastructure such as haul roads and special foundations.
• Integrated mining infrastructure engineering: Engineering designs were developed for waste rock dumps, stockpiles, DMOs, channels, sedimentation dams, hydraulic systems, platforms, and civil works, including redesigns, expansions, and component optimization.
• Water management and drainage systems: Design of surface and groundwater management systems, including diversion channels, pumping and dewatering systems, sedimentation ponds, drainage works, and sediment control measures, ensuring safe and efficient operations.
• Feasibility studies and environmental permitting: Studies were developed for expansions, new components, and operational modifications, along with technical documentation for environmental processes (MEIA, ITS) and resolution of regulatory observations.
• Construction quality assurance (CQA/CQC): Supervision and quality control of civil works, earthworks, hydraulic systems, and component assembly, including both field and fabrication shop inspections.
• Technical audits and safety inspections: Execution of technical and administrative audits, safety inspections of dams under international standards, preparation of contingency reports, and evaluation of contractor and operational performance.
• Comprehensive multidisciplinary engineering support: Provision of engineering support across project portfolios, integrating disciplines such as geotechnical, civil, hydraulic, process, mechanical, electrical, and instrumentation engineering, tailored to projects of varying scale and complexity.