Can you introduce us to Ecocontrol?

We are an engineering company specialized in thermo-mechanical installations (HVAC) mainly for industrial use, both for productive applications and for the comfort and safety of those who work in these spaces. We control essential variables such as temperature, humidity, air quality and pressure differential in contexts of high pollution, explosive atmospheres or requiring uninterrupted operation. We are dealers of the leading brands in the market and we offer a complete service that covers all stages of the project: design, supply, installation and after-sales.

Initially, we provided services to various sectors, including air conditioning, ventilation, heating, and air filtration. Over time, we shifted our focus to the mining sector, and we have worked with major companies and expanded our services in Argentina, particularly in remote mining camps, where we provide air conditioning, heating, and other essential services.

The mining industry in Argentina, particularly in remote locations, faces unique challenges, including extreme temperatures and high levels of dust. We specialize in providing solutions for these challenges, such as designing and installing HVAC systems for electrical rooms in mines to protect sensitive equipment from heat and dust. We also work on creating comfortable and safe living conditions for mining camp workers, including providing air conditioning, heating, and air filtration for laboratories, medical centers, and other critical infrastructure. Additionally, we focus on protecting equipment from corrosion in lithium salt flats by using chemical filters.

Can you provide some details on projects that Ecocontrol has worked on in mining?

Our first large project in mining was with Exar for their lithium mine in Jujuy. Since then, we have worked on several other essential mining projects, often in collaboration with major companies such as Schneider Electric and ABB. 

Our primary focus has been on electrical room enclosures, ensuring that the equipment operates efficiently in harsh conditions. Additionally, we have expanded our services to include providing support for mining camps, building entire small communities in remote locations.

How does Ecocontrol work with international companies?

We have developed strong partnerships with global companies, notably Schneider Electric, ABB. Through our collaboration with Schneider Electric, we have worked on several significant projects in Argentina and Chile. For example, we have provided technical support and air conditioning solutions for electrical rooms in the Centinela copper project in Antofagasta, Chile. We are also working on a large project for YPF and Pluspetrol in Vaca Muerta, Argentina. In these projects, we supply and install equipment that is critical for exploring operations, particularly in areas with extreme temperatures or explosive atmospheres. 

How does Ecocontrol support the oil and gas industry, and how do you compare it with your work in the mining sector?

In the oil industry, we frequently work in explosive environments, which necessitate specialized equipment that can safely handle these hazards. In mining, particularly in high-altitude locations, we deal more with issues related to temperature and dust. 

What role does innovation play in Ecocontrol’s business strategy?

Technology plays a crucial role in our operations, particularly in the engineering and design phases of our projects. We use software to perform thermal balance simulations for electrical rooms, helping us determine the maximum and minimum temperatures throughout the year. Additionally, we utilize Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations to model airflow within a space and optimize ventilation systems. By using these simulations, we can identify potential issues early in the design process, saving time and money, and ensuring that the equipment functions optimally in the field.

What are Ecocontrol’s goals for the coming year?

We are very optimistic about the coming year, particularly given the current political landscape in Argentina. There is significant potential in both the mining and oil & gas sectors, and we expect to see continued demand for our services. Our primary goal is to complete our certifications for ISO 9001, 14001, and 45001, which will enable us to improve our operations and better meet the needs of our clients. We are also working on expanding our partnerships with large companies, which will allow us to play a more significant role in the sector. Overall, we remain focused on delivering high-quality engineering solutions, enhancing our capabilities, and expanding our business in Argentina and beyond.