The Nurkazgan mine’s Western section is undergoing significant advancements as part of its investment programme aimed at enhancing production infrastructure and improving extraction efficiency. A key milestone in this initiative is the construction of a crushing and conveyor complex, along with ore pass No. 16, located at a depth of -140 metres. This project is set to facilitate the continued extraction of lower levels of the deposit and enable the transition to continuous ore transportation to the surface. Over 8.4 billion tenge will be allocated for the creation of this autonomous infrastructure network across various levels of the mine.
The majority of the funding, exceeding 6 billion tenge, is earmarked for the construction of the crushing and conveyor complex at the -140 metre level, which is expected to commence operations by the end of 2026. The remaining funds will support the establishment of a service base, which will be relocated underground to optimise processes. Plans for 2027 include the commissioning of an underground explosives storage facility with a capacity of 30 tonnes at the 0 metre level, alongside the launch of a repair station. By 2028, the construction of a refuelling station at the -60 metre level is anticipated to be completed.
The necessity for extensive modernisation stems from the progressive shift of mining operations to deeper levels of the mine, and subsequently, the development of the Eastern section of the Nurkazgan deposit. As part of the project, builders are excavating conveyor drifts, transfer chambers, and crushing chambers, where technological equipment will soon be installed. The rock mass will be transported by load-haul-dump (LHD) machines over minimal distances and dropped into the ore pass, where a crushing complex will be installed to process large rock blocks.
A significant advantage of this project is its execution by the Corporation’s own resources. All phases of the work are being carried out by internal specialised divisions and relevant services, ensuring a high level of coordination, quality of work, prompt resolution of emerging issues, and effective use of internal resources. The management, coordination, and support of the project are overseen by the Capital Production Projects Department. Construction and installation work is being performed by the G. Omarov Shaft Construction Trust, while the installation of conveyor equipment is managed by the Repair and Mechanical Specialised Management. The manufacturing of technological equipment and metal structures is provided by Maker LLP. Quality control of mechanical and electrical work is conducted by the respective services of the chief mechanic and chief energy specialist of Nurkazgan TKO.
Crushed ore will be fed into a new conveyor cascade with a total length of 844 metres. With a belt width of 1200 mm and a speed of 3.5-4 m/s, the system will ensure the continuous lifting of 1200 tonnes of ore per hour to a height of nearly 100 metres. At this point, the complex will connect with the existing main conveyor 3.2. The scheme includes the physical extension of the existing mainline and the phased augmentation of current main conveyors, creating a seamless transport artery for delivering ore from the depths of the mine directly to the processing plant.
In addition to direct economic benefits and reduced fleet maintenance costs, the project enhances workplace safety. The automation of processes for moving large volumes of rock mass will completely remove personnel from potentially hazardous areas of underground mining. The implementation of these engineering solutions will ensure uninterrupted ore delivery, improve production efficiency, and establish a reliable foundation for the sustainable operation and long-term development of the Nurkazgan mine.
