Inside Our Underground Concrete Work on 68L

At Resolution Copper, we recently completed a major upgrade on 68L, one of the key levels deep in our underground system. The work was a collaboration between our team, RedPath, and Oddonetto, and it is a good window into what it takes to build strong mining infrastructure before full operations begin.

This is the story behind that work. It covers how decisions were made, what challenges we faced, how our crews handled each one, and why the result matters for the long term. You will also see the people side of the job because underground construction is never just materials and machinery. It is trust, communication, and skill coming together under conditions most folks will never see.

Why 68L Needed New Concrete

Before any concrete was mixed or any equipment was moved, our team walked the drift and agreed on a clear need. The existing surface on 68L had taken years of wear from equipment, water, and heavy use. We want the level to be safe, durable, and ready for the next phase of our development work. New concrete helps stabilize the drift, control water flow, create better footing, and support long term underground construction.

This is part of a bigger focus on building world class mining infrastructure early. When you have a world class ore body, you build an operation that matches the quality of the resource. Every upgrade, including this one, pushes us closer to that goal.

Planning and Collaboration

The most important decision we made early was to treat the project as one team. Resolution, RedPath, and Oddonetto brought different skills and equipment, but the alignment was simple. Safety comes first, communication stays constant, and every step gets checked twice.

We held onsite planning sessions that mapped out everything from the concrete formula to ventilation to movement in and out of the drift. Working through all possible scenarios helped the team stay confident and coordinated.

Batching Concrete Onsite

To keep quality high and timing predictable, we decided to batch concrete on site. That choice removed hours of driving time, reduced temperature changes that could affect the mix, and put the control in our hands.

On surface, crews mixed each batch to spec, tested it, and loaded it into underground haul trucks. Each load had to be timed so crews below were ready to receive it. Concrete does not wait for anyone. Once you start, you stay in motion.

The Delivery Journey to Shaft 09

This part of the job tends to surprise people. We hauled the concrete to Shaft 09 where it began the trip down almost 7,000 feet to 68L. The only way to move concrete safely and consistently that distance is in special buckets designed to keep the mix workable. Each bucket was checked at surface, checked again underground, and moved with care.

Crews on 68L Bringing It Home

Once the buckets reached 68L, the real artistry began. Underground construction is not about rushing. It is about getting the finish right so it holds up for years. Our crews spread the concrete across the drift, leveled it, checked it again, and gave it a smooth, polished surface.

Why This Work Matters

This was not just a concrete pour. It was part of building the foundation for a future operation that aims to produce copper responsibly for decades. Strong underground construction supports safety, reliability, and long-term planning. It also shows something bigger. Even before production, our teams are putting in real work that improves the site and moves us forward.

This project showed what underground concrete work looks like when everyone brings their best. It took planning, teamwork, and trust. Most of all, it took people who care about doing things the right way. We hope this look behind the scenes helps you understand how much pride goes into every upgrade on site. There is more work ahead, and this is one more step toward a strong future.