Transforming Mining Shutdown Execution through Integrated VDC/BIM: A Scalable Framework for Brownfield Projects Author: Juan Carlos Mayta Checasaca Topic Area 1: Mining Science and Innovation Topic Area 2: Smart Operations and Systems Integration ABSTRACT Plant shutdowns in mining represent high-risk events in terms of safety, productivity, and financial performance, particularly in brownfield environments where operational continuity is critical. This paper presents a scalable framework integrating Virtual Design and Construction (VDC), Building Information Modelling (BIM), Integrated Concurrent Engineering (ICE), and Project Production Management (PPM) applied to a high-complexity shutdown project in a copper concentrator plant in Peru. From the Owner’s perspective, the implementation of this integrated methodology significantly improved project delivery performance by enhancing collaboration, reducing operational variability, and increasing reliability in engineering and construction execution. Key results included over 95% Operations & Maintenance (O&M) user satisfaction, 96% clash detection and resolution during design, a 26% reduction in design variability, and a reduction in decision-making latency from five days to 25 minutes through ICE sessions. In addition, the application of 4D BIM simulations improved constructability, operability, and execution planning within a constrained shutdown window, where delays represented losses of approximately USD 127K per day. The study demonstrates how VDC can act as a strategic enabler for integrated digital project delivery in mining shutdown projects, providing a practical foundation for future integration with digital twins, real-time analytics, and AI-assisted planning. The findings contribute to advancing more reliable, collaborative, and technology-driven execution models aligned with the mining industry transformation agenda under the principles of Trust, Transformation, and Technology. KEY WORDS Virtual Design and Construction (VDC), Building Information Modelling (BIM), Integrated Concurrent Engineering (ICE), Project Production Management (PPM), Mining Shutdowns, Constructability. 1. Introduction Plant shutdowns represent one of the most critical operational events in mining, directly impacting production continuity, safety performance, and financial outcomes. In large-scale operations, even minor deviations during shutdown execution can result in significant economic
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