Hideo Hama: the legacy of a pioneer who helped develop Brazilian industry

Few careers are as intertwined with the evolution of an industry as that of Hideo Hama. Founder of FLUXO Soluções Integradas, he led the business for over three decades and helped build a benchmark in terminals, process efficiency, instrumentation, and automation. Throughout this journey, he sought technologies capable of anticipating needs and opening new paths for the industry, leaving contributions that remain relevant to this day.

The origins of a pioneering vision

It all began in 1970, with the founding of FLUXO Instalações e Equipamentos Ltda. by engineer Carlos Espinheira de Sá and Hideo Hama. This occurred during the early stages of industrialization in Bahia. The company was established with the clear goal of bringing the world’s most advanced industrial instrumentation and automation technology to the regional market. The name itself stems from this original mission, as the first companies the firm represented specialized in solid, liquid, and gaseous material flow control.

In 1989, that pioneering spirit gained new momentum with the founding of FLUXO Serviços de Petróleo Ltda. by Hideo Hama. The arrival of Sérgio Luiz de Moraes Pato, a Petrobras reservoir engineer, broadened the company’s horizons and reshaped its focus to the domestic market. Years later, in 2009, the company adopted the name FLUXO Soluções Integradas to reflect its increasingly integrated role and began serving sectors beyond oil and gas.

From pioneer to industry benchmark.

Hideo kept a close eye on emerging trends. Year after year, various lines of business took shape, from tank telemetry to offshore loading arms. His ability to transform a pioneering spirit into a consistent presence across such diverse sectors is perhaps one of the most striking traits of his leadership.

“He was always deeply curious about what was happening in the world and how it could be applied here. He could see an opportunity before it became obvious, and he believed it was possible to make it happen,” says Stela Hama, Hideo Hama's daughter.

Those who knew Hideo well are aware that, even before any technical achievements, he stood out for the way he managed relationships—with warmth, integrity, and a genuine interest in the people around him. This combination of technical rigor and human warmth helps explain why he is so fondly remembered.

Over the years, he has established partnerships with globally renowned companies in their respective industries, bringing cutting-edge knowledge and solutions to the domestic market. Currently, there are more than 30 such companies represented across nine countries. This combination of excellence and approachability has become part of FLUXO’s culture, which values the quality of its deliverables and its people. Products, services, and engineering integrated with solutions form the three pillars that underpin this approach.

“Hideo leaves behind a legacy of affection, admiration, and deep gratitude. His way of leading FLUXO, cultivating relationships, and seeking new possibilities left its mark on generations and is part of who we are today. It is up to us to honor this legacy by preserving the excellence, care for people, and commitment that were always present in his entrepreneurial approach”, comments Fábio André, the company's current President.

Key milestones and achievements

Measurement and Automation

• Pioneering technology in SmartRadar tank gauging systems
• Introduction of the ‘2 wire’ electric valve actuator remote control system
• Automation of major waterway and onshore terminals

Terminals and Material Handling

• Pioneering and leadership in loading skids for terminals
• Leader in Marine Loading Arms
• Leader in VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) recovery units

Critical Processes

• Leader in top and bottom valves for coke drums in refineries
• Chemical injection solutions for critical onshore and offshore operating conditions

New Markets and Applications

• Pioneering technology in microturbine cogeneration plants
• Country pioneer of flexible pipes for gas transportation
• Leader in actuated valves for slurry pipelines

A legacy that continues to evolve

Hideo Hama’s influence is evident in many ways. It is found in the technologies introduced to the country, the projects that transformed operations, the relationships built, and the principles embedded in FLUXO’s culture. Today, FLUXO continues to look toward the future with the same willingness to recognize new opportunities and contribute to the industry's advancement.