The Challenge

A major copper mine operator in Chile wanted to extract water from an open-pit copper mine. The company researched two different options to extract the water: trucking and new pipeline construction. After evaluating both options, it was determined that trucking would significantly increase OPEX costs as well as the time to manage truck movement and personnel around the company’s surface blasting schedule. Additionally, it was determined that the construction of a new steel pipeline would take the company six months to deploy. 

To address these concerns, the company searched for a solution that would allow them to reduce their OPEX costs and quickly install the pipeline around their planned surface blasting schedule. 

The Solution

Working alongside an independent third-party engineering firm, the company ran countless calculations to determine the best solution to install the new pipeline.  

After a review of the project requirements, it was determined that FlexSteel 8-inch, 750 psi line pipe offered the best balance between cost and value. Additionally, the installation of FlexSteel line pipe would drastically lower the company’s maintenance costs and eliminate the need for continuous maintenance and repair programs. Furthermore, FlexSteel line pipe’s robust and durable design would allow the company to install the pipeline across the steep cliff surface in less than a week. 

The Result

Upon completion of the project, the operator realized several key benefits: 

• Eliminated the need for continuous maintenance and repair programs

• Reduced installation time from six months to one week

• Obtained a reliable pipeline solution with the ability to reach pressures above 500 psi