Compañía Minera del Pacífico

Through this article, Francisco Bastías Cortés is focusing on CMP's digital transformation through SAP BTP to enhance safety, efficiency, and sustainability in mining operations. It also emphasizes the critical role of the GRP model in managing risks and optimizing processes.

In the constantly evolving landscape of the mining industry, the ability to innovate and adapt is crucial. At Compañía Minera del Pacífico (CMP), we have faced this challenge head-on by implementing the SAP Business Technology Platform (SAP BTP) to bring our operational model, known as Process Risk Management (GRP), into the digital world. This transformation is not just about technology; it's about creating a safer, more efficient, and sustainable mining operation.

The Pillar of Our Operations: GRP

CMP is a leading iron ore producer on the Pacific coast of the Americas and has always prioritized safety and efficiency. Our GRP model serves as the pillar of our operations, focusing on identifying, evaluating, and controlling risks across all processes. By minimizing variability and uncertainty, we protect our workforce and assets, ensuring operational excellence.

However, traditional methods for managing these risks were not sufficient in the face of modern challenges. We needed a more dynamic and integrated approach to risk management, one that could keep pace with the complexities of today's mining environment. This is where SAP BTP came into play.

Why SAP BTP?

We selected SAP BTP for its versatility, intuitive interface, and seamless integration with S/4HANA. This platform offers a solid foundation for developing applications that support our GRP model, allowing us to digitize our entire operational framework. Over five months, we developed the core application, incorporating the Asset Management module to define and control master plans organization wide.

SAP BTP allows us to enter process maps, identify risks, and implement control measures for each process while monitoring daily activities. The ability to capture this information has revolutionized our approach to safety, providing real-time data for reporting and automation. As a result, we have seen a 65 percent reduction in our Frequency Index (FI), significantly reducing occupational risks.

Digital Transformation in Action

The SAP BTP platform has enabled the development of five key modules within our GRP operating model:

1. Process Mapping Module: This module allows us to enter detailed process maps, subprocesses, activities, and tasks, complete with risk evaluations and control measures.

2. Shift Start Meetings Module (RIT): It facilitates the identification of critical tasks, associated risks, and responsible personnel at the beginning of each shift, ensuring everyone is informed and prepared.

3. Field Verification Module (VCT): It enables on-site verification of daily activities, ensuring real-time compliance and safety.

4. Work Authorization Module (VAT): We manage authorizations for work in industrial areas, ensuring that all necessary precautions are in place before tasks begin.

5. Incident Logging Module: Incidents affecting processes are recorded directly in S/4HANA, allowing for efficient management and resolution.

Through these modules, we have achieved a 37 percent reduction in the average time to close incidents, from 83 days to just 52 days. This improvement is not just a metric; it represents a significant step forward in protecting our workforce and maintaining operational continuity.

Collaboration for Success: BlueBoot

Our journey with SAP BTP was further strengthened by our collaboration with BlueBoot, a leading partner in Fiori, and SAP Cloud Business Technology Platform in Latin America. Their expertise in implementing Fiori applications and portals on the SAP Cloud Platform was invaluable. BlueBoot played a crucial role in every phase of the project, from initial design to Go-Live support, and continues to enhance the system as it evolves.

Driving Innovation and Sustainability

At CMP, innovation and sustainability go hand in hand. Our Magnetite Plant, one of the largest circular economy facilities in the world, processes enormous mining waste, contributing to environmental sustainability and land recovery. By using 33% less water than other mining operations, we are committed to reducing our environmental footprint.

  ​We selected SAP BTP for its versatility, intuitive interface, and seamless integration with S/4HANA. This platform offers a solid foundation for developing applications that support our GRP model, allowing us to digitize our entire operational framework. 

SAP BTP has been fundamental in supporting our sustainability goals. The platform's ability to digitize and automate processes allows us to optimize resource use and minimize waste. Additionally, it supports our efforts to reduce our carbon footprint by promoting cloud-based solutions that lower the total cost of ownership (TCO) and enhance cybersecurity.

The Road Ahead

As we continue our digital transformation journey, SAP BTP remains at the core of our strategy. We are exploring new applications and integrations that will further enhance our operational capabilities. Our goal is to become an Intelligent Enterprise powered by SAP, where data-driven insights lead to proactive decision-making and continuous improvement.

In conclusion, SAP BTP has not only enabled us to effectively implement our GRP model but has also positioned CMP as a leader in sustainable mining practices. By embracing digital innovation, we are creating a mining operation that is not only safer and more efficient but also aligned with the needs of the environment and the community.