The introduction of technical innovations in the gold mining industry of the Magadan sovnarkhoz (1957-1962)

The main aim of the article is to analyze the implementation of technical innovations at gold mines of Kolyma and Chukotka in the late 1950s - early 1960s, to identify differences from the era of Dalstroy. It is achieved by a study of the introduction of new technology for the main types of gold mining: open placer, underground placer, drag gold mining, gold extraction. The research is based on the documents of the State Archive of Magadan Oblast, in particular on the record keeping documentation of Magadan sovnarkhoz (the Economic Council of Magadan Oblast). Many archival materials are first introduced into the broad scientific use. Almost all equipment supplied from other regions of the USSR was subjected to a profound modernization by engineers and constructors. Upgraded machines had higher industrial parameters, were adapted to the extreme conditions of the north of the Far East of Russia. New models were produced in Magadan Oblast, at plants subordinated to the sovnarkhoz. This allowed to quickly deliver them to the mines. To prepare polygons for alluvial mining new drilling machines BS-3 were used. To wash gold-bearing sand metal washing devices of new types were introduced; they replaced the models of wooden construction used in Dalstroy. Washing devices and drags were equipped with electric apparatuses for trapping gold nuggets and with other special devices invented in the region. With their help the sovnarkhoz increased gold extraction. Since the beginning of the 1960s, gold-bearing areas were washed with hydroelevators. In this case the Magadan sovnarkhoz used the experience of Chita and Amur Oblasts in gold mining. The author makes a conclusion that during the short period of activities of the Magadan sovnarkhoz, the gold mining industry was technically upgraded with new equipment, adapted to work in the severe northern conditions. Technical innovations played an important role in overcoming the heavy heritage of Dalstroy, contributed to the growth of gold mining in Kolyma. Also significant is the experience of the mine Eksperimental'nyy [Experimental] as a specialized site for testing all the new equipment and new technological processes for gold mining. At a higher level there was an exchange of best practices and distribution of technical information. The achievements of the Magadan sovnarkhoz in this sphere were widely used in subsequent years.

Keywords

Authors

References