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An EX3600-6 excavator clocks up 100,000 hours of operation

News Large excavator
20 Oct 2025

A Hitachi EX3600-6 ultra-large hydraulic excavator has achieved an important milestone – reaching 100,000 hours of operation at the Kumtor gold mine in Kyrgyzstan. The machine has been working at the site since 2012, enduring an extremely harsh environment in which temperatures can go as low as minus 40°C.

Operated by Kumtor Gold, the mine is located in the southeastern part of Lake Issyk-Kul. It is one of the largest open-site gold mines in the world and sits at an altitude of around 4,000 metres.

To commemorate the excavator’s achievement, the Hitachi Construction Machinery (HCM) affiliate responsible for sales and servicing in Central Asia – Eurasian Machinery LLP – held a ceremony at the mine. Among the 70 people in attendance were: Kumtor Gold Chairman of the Board, Bolotbek Idirisov; Deputy Mine Director, Tynchtyk Mokeev; Eurasian Machinery President, M. Kemal Cetinelli; and HCM Vice President and Executive Officer, Eiji Fukunishi.

Dealing with extremes

Kumtor Gold deploys five EX3600-6 excavators at the mine. To cope with the climate, the machines have been fitted with extras, such as engine heaters to ensure they start even in the coldest temperatures.

In addition, covers prevent heat from escaping and freezing air from entering key systems. Because of the high altitude, engine output has been cut by 30% to ensure the machines can deal with reduced levels of oxygen.

The exceptional performance of the EX3600-6 demonstrates the durability and reliability of HCM products, as well as the quality of its parts and the service provided by its local dealer.

Watch the machine in action

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