CAT 6060 electric shovel loading a Caterpillar 793F autonomous haul truck at the pit
December 6, 2023
It is an exciting time at Côté Gold, with the project’s construction now over 92%complete and project activities shifting from major construction to finalization and commissioning. Mining operations have now been handed over to our own teams, and we are mining 24/7, with approximately 4.1 million tonnes of ore stockpiled at the end of October, well on our way to meeting our target build-up of 5 million tonnes by the end of the year.
Promoting a tech-driven and continuous improvement culture. Côté Gold and Toromont have recently commissioned the first of two Caterpillar 6060 electric shovels. These shovels have two twin electric drive motors and a new operator-friendly cabin design. Powered by a 7.2 kw substation, they can load our 793 autonomous haul trucks in just four passes, increasing efficiency and reducing loading time. This equipment is vital for our 2024 and long-term mining plans. Our second CAT 6060 is being prepared for production and will be operational later this year!
The progress of our Côté Gold project is substantial, and it remains on schedule to start initial production in Q1 of 2024. Our focus is now on completing the processing plant, and momentum has been strong leading into winter. There were more than 1,800 workers on site in Q3, and we applaud the teams at Côté for their dedication and focus on operating safely!
Primary earthworks contractor demobilized to Côté Gold. Bulk fill for the TMF Phase II has reached target elevation. Sand bedding and liner work will be completed in the fourth quarter.
Installation of ball mill liners is complete, and motors and motor soleplates are set. Leach and CIP tank installation remain a primary focus, with completion expected in the fourth quarter.
HPGR and secondary crushing building progressed well in the quarter, with all conveyors erected and most of the secondary crusher components installed.
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Connection to the overhead power line has been completed, with the electrification of the site ongoing. Transfer of Care, Custody and Control of the Assay Lab to Côté Gold has been completed successfully.
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A total of 14 CAT793F autonomous haul trucks are now commissioned, and 11 of them are already operating. The stockpile currently contains approximately 4.1M tonnes of ore.
IAMGOLD continues to apply for and obtain permits required to construct and operate the mine. A list of all permits applied for and received to date is available at www.iamgold.com/cotegold in the Permitting Applications section.
