FACTBOX-Major copper supply disruptions

LONDON, June 12 (Reuters) - Copper prices have been underpinned in recent years by unexpected production losses due to technical woes, accidents and strikes, keeping supply tight and deferring a predicted move into sizeable surplus.

Stoppages have helped support prices.

Following is a rundown of recent major disruptions to copper production and projects, as well as company predictions of lower output due to problems such as falling ore grades:

June 11 - Protesters blocked roads leading into Southern Peru Copper's (PCU.N) (SPC.LM) Ilo smelter and Cuajone mine in Peru. The protesters live nearby and have demanded the miner provide more financial assistance to their towns.

June 10 - Workers at Freeport McMoRan's (FCX.N) Cerro Verde copper pit said they went on strike over a contract dispute, though the mine's operator said output held steady.

June 9 - Inmet Mining (IMN.TO) said copper production at its Las Cruces mine in Spain could be delayed into next year as it tries to get back a water permit suspended in May by the country's water authority.