The Russian Urals region experiences harsh weather conditions, with temperatures ranging from -40°C to +40°C. For the Levobereznoe copper mine in the Orenburg region, Uralprom opted for Atlas Copco Predictable Power to meet its power generation requirements in the form of an Atlas Copco QAS 250 generator built into a ‘North’ container. The Uralprom engineering company required a 250 kVA generator for the mine. As part of UMMC, one of the world’s largest mining companies, Levobereznoe is run by Mednogorskij Medno-Sernij Komvinat (MMSK). Developing a new open pit requires a lot of electrical power for the construction of the camp, pump stations and other infrastructure, however, mains electricity wasn’t an option, hence the choice of an on-site generator. The generator had to be built according to demanding specifications, including working temperatures ranging from -40°C to +40°C and protection against wind, snow, rain and falling rock.

“We have a long and good working relationship with Atlas Copco,” says Denis Polykov, Deputy Director, Uralprom. “We know we can trust Atlas Copco equipment to perform well in every environment.” In cooperation with its engineering team in Zaragoza, Atlas Copco developed a customised solution based on its Predictable Power philosophy: an Atlas Copco QAS 250 generator, built into a ‘North’ container. The Atlas Copco QAS 250 delivers 250 kVA prime power and 275 kVA standby power. Its 500-hour service interval, comprehensive Qc1002™ control module and sealed spillage-free frame simplify on-site operation and maintenance. “For this application, the high quality canopy of the QAS 250 wasn’t suitable,” says Vadim Tokarev, Sales Representative for ZAO Atlas Copco in Russia. “Due to the environmental conditions, we determined that a ‘North’ container was necessary. All containerised generators offer easy transportation, but, as the name suggests, the ‘North’ is also able to withstand low temperatures (-40°C) to ensure the generator works even on the coldest days.”

In addition, its soundproof materials help to reduce noise emissions. The container also incorporates health and safety features. These include a fire alarm system, an automatic fire extinguisher, a cooling system for optimum air temperature, emergency lighting, built-in storage batteries and a security alarm system. “Delivering Predictable Power regardless of the environment is something that we pride ourselves on,” continues Tokarev. “Predictable Power is our guiding principle for how we design, test, build, commission and service our generators. In this case, the customised QAS 250 combines low cost of ownership, reliable performance and risk-free operation – elements that our customers want and need.”