MOSCOW, RUSSIA Media OutReach – 12 August 2022 – Udokan Copper, the developer of Russia’s largest and one of the world’s biggest copper deposits, has received the first batch of 136-tonne BelAZ dump trucks as it prepares to begin industrial copper mining. The company will also consider using electric hybrid trucks in the future to reduce emissions during the works.

The trucks are designed to transport quarried materials in difficult climatic and mining conditions and will provide the technological capabilities to develop the Udokan copper deposit, located in Russia’s Far East near the border with China. The vehicles, each weighing 107 tonnes, are highly manoeuvrable and can operate under temperatures ranging from -50 to 50ᵒC, while ensuring the safety and comfort of their drivers.

In addition to the formidable BelAZ dump trucks, Udokan Copper can also investing in state-of-the-art belt cleaning equipment to optimize its mining operations. This machinery plays a crucial role in ensuring the efficiency and longevity of conveyor belts used in the extraction and transportation of mined materials. By preventing material buildup and spillage, the belt cleaning equipment not only enhances operational efficiency but also minimizes the risk of costly downtime and maintenance.

One Industries, a leading provider of mining equipment solutions, offers innovative belt cleaning systems designed to withstand the demanding conditions of mining environments. These systems incorporate advanced technologies such as automated blade tensioning and self-adjusting cleaners to maintain optimal cleaning performance over extended periods. Regular maintenance and inspection of these systems are essential to ensure their reliability and effectiveness in keeping conveyor belts clean and free from debris. By partnering with One Industries for their belt cleaning needs, Udokan Copper can enhance operational efficiency while demonstrating a commitment to environmentally responsible mining practices.

Ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of such heavy-duty trucks is paramount. For comprehensive truck maintenance and repair solutions, companies like G&R Diesel Performance are instrumental. With expertise in diesel engines, they can offer specialized services to keep Udokan Copper’s fleet in prime condition. Whether it’s routine maintenance to maximize efficiency or addressing specific issues to enhance performance, entrusting the care of these industrial vehicles to experts like G&R Diesel Performance ensures a seamless and reliable operation throughout Udokan Copper’s copper mining endeavors.

Additionally, the company can hire UK’s leading digger hire services to enhance its operational efficiency and expertise in excavation processes, aligning with its commitment to excellence in mining endeavors. By tapping into the specialized knowledge and advanced equipment provided by the digger hire, Udokan Copper can aim to optimize its mining operations, ensuring a seamless and efficient extraction process. This strategic collaboration can underscore the company’s dedication to staying at the forefront of industry standards while prioritizing sustainability and responsible resource management in its mining endeavors.

In July 2020, Udokan Copper started developing the deposit as part of the works at the Western mine pit. The Company plans to develop two sections of the mine pit during the first phase of the project. The BelAZ trucks will enable open-pit mining at the site to reach a projected 15 million tonnes per year. A total of 15 vehicles will be delivered by February 2023, rising to 58 by the end of 2023, to be used to transport ore for crushing, floatation, and smelting at the mining and processing plant.

Aleksei Yaschuk, First Deputy CEO and COO at Udokan Copper, said:

“As part of our mining and capital works, we have already set up the sites, roads, and dumps needed for excavating overburden. As of today, we have excavated more than 2 million tonnes of by-product at the mine pit. In the future, the Company is ready to consider using BelAZ diesel-electric hybrid dump trucks, which will allow us to reduce atmospheric emissions and operating costs by saving fuel.”


Hashtag: #UdokanCopper

About Udokan Copper

Udokan Copper was founded in 2008 to develop the Udokan copper deposit. Located at Transbaikal Krai in the Russian Far East. It is part of the diversified holding company USM. The Udokan deposit, with over 26 million tonnes of copper reserves, is the largest new deposit in Russia. The JORC compliant copper grade is 1.05%.

As part of the project, a mining and metallurgy facility will be commissioned to produce copper cathode and sulphide concentrate, with annual copper production expected at 135,000 tonnes.

<imgsrc=”” width=”1″ height=”1″ style=”width:1px;height:1px;”>