Zambia copper mine expansion project

Project Name: Expansion Project of Mining and Processing Capacity of a Large Copper Mine in the Copperbelt Province, Zambia
Implementing Unit: Zambian Subsidiary of an International Mining Group
Commissioning Time: Fourth Quarter of 2024
Project Background: To meet global copper resource demand, the mine initiated a power capacity expansion project for its processing plant and deep mining system.
Connection Voltage Level: 33 kV
Core Equipment: TSTY Electric's customized SCB-10000/33 type mining epoxy-cast dry-type transformer, rated capacity 10 MVA.
Energy Type: Dual power supply from the mine's own gas-fired power plant and the main grid.

Technical Highlights and Equipment Performance

Intrinsically Safe and Highly Environmentally Adaptable: Utilizing epoxy resin vacuum casting dry-type technology, eliminating insulating oil and completely preventing fire and explosion risks, meeting the most stringent mine safety regulations.
Enhanced Shock and Harmonic Resistance: To address the severe load impacts and 5th and 7th harmonics caused by frequent start-ups and shutdowns of large crushers and ball mills, mechanical reinforcement of the core and windings, along with electromagnetic optimization design, have been implemented. This results in strong short-circuit resistance and low overheating risk.
High Efficiency, Energy Saving, and System Simplification: The product meets the new national standard for Grade 1 energy efficiency, with overall losses more than 15% lower than ordinary oil-immersed mining transformers, demonstrating significant long-term economic benefits.

Project Benefits and Data

Energy Efficiency Data: Energy efficiency indicators exceed the contractually agreed Grade 1 energy efficiency standard, with estimated annual electricity savings exceeding 120,000 kWh.
Reliability Record: Since commissioning, the transformer has operated continuously without failure for over 8 months in the high-dust and high-humidity main beneficiation plant, withstanding the tests of a complete rainy season and peak production periods.
Stability Performance: Under the instantaneous impact of a large ball mill's direct start-up, the voltage drop on the transformer's secondary side was controlled within 8%, far exceeding the level of similar products, ensuring the stable operation of other precision equipment. The maintenance-free design saves approximately RMB 50,000 to 80,000 annually in costs for insulating oil testing, filtration, replacement, and related safety protection.