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: Quote, Profile, Research) (SPC.LM: Quote, Profile, Research) 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: Quote, Profile, Research) 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: Quote, Profile, Research) 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.