Fluor Corp. has been awarded an initial contract by Baikal Mining Co. (as part of Metalloinvest) for the definition phase of the Udokan copper development project in Russia. Baikal Mining commenced work on the definition phase study with Fluor Canada Ltd. and it is expected to continue through the remainder of 2012. The start of feasibility study services is anticipated for first quarter 2013. The work is being executed from Fluor’s Vancouver, Canada, office with support from the Farnborough, United Kingdom, and Moscow, Russia, offices.
“This is a strategic win for Fluor in this key region,” said Rick Koumouris, senior vice president and Fluor’s Mining & Metals business line lead. “We are glad that our customer recognized the value of our diverse global mining experience as well as our world class safety culture that will help them accomplish this project.”
During the definition phase, Fluor will develop and perform a metallurgical test work program, and will implement the trade-off studies required to prepare design criteria and scopes of work for the subsequent stages of the international feasibility study for the Udokan copper project.
The Udokan deposit, situated in the Kalarsky Area of Russia’s Zabaikalye Region, is one of the largest undeveloped copper deposits in the world. Baikal Mining was established in 2008 specifically for the implementation of the Udokan copper deposit development project.
