It is no secret that the condition of technological roads in quarries significantly affects the productivity of machines and, accordingly, the efficiency of a mining enterprise. In addition, in the area where huge dump trucks operate, transporting mined ore to its destination, high security is required.

Today, the Almalyk Mining and Metallurgical Complex is implementing a mega-project for the development of the Yoshlik I deposit. As part of the project, not only the total volume of work is increased, but also the length of the plant's quarry roads (70 km). All this requires a range of works to maintain roads in good condition.

As practice shows, the following occurs as a result of improper maintenance of roads in quarries. Firstly, the driver is forced to slow down due to discomfort, which directly affects productivity. Secondly, there is increased wear and tear on vehicle components (in particular, the lifespan of expensive tires decreases), which ultimately leads to unexpected and unwanted downtime, which also negatively affects productivity.

To avoid this, graders are actively used in the construction and maintenance of highways. This special equipment is also used in the quarries of the AMMC. Previously, the vehicle fleet of the mining mechanization workshop of the technological transport department consisted of 6 motor graders of the DZ-98 brand. In March of this year, the fleet was replenished with two modern American-made Caterpillar CAT16 motor graders, which are almost twice as powerful and productive as the existing equipment. Also, CAT16 is characterized by easy controllability with large mass and size of the working body.

New motor graders began working on the benches of the Yoshlik I quarry in April of this year. In such a relatively short period of time, this technology managed to have a positive impact on the progress of work in several directions.

As the deputy head of Utility Vehicles Department for vehicle operation said: “The use of this equipment led to an increase in productivity by 10-15% and operational speed by 30-40%, an increase in the mileage of large tires by 10-20%, and a reduction in the need for repairs by 10-15%.”

The acquisition of two more units of similar equipment is expected soon. This, in turn, will ensure timely repair of the roadway, which will increase cargo turnover and contribute to the growth of economic indicators of the enterprise.