RCT – Powered by Epiroc has been supplying machine management and automation programs to a distinguished silver and lead mine in Queensland for almost 30 years, supporting its fleet of underground LHD loaders by a long-standing partnership. The positioning at present operates RCT’s multi-machine answer, AutoNav, throughout its manufacturing loader fleet and, final yr, launched 4 new Cat R2900G underground LHDs to interchange older machines. These additions additional improve security and productiveness on web site.
“All 4 installations have been accomplished by RCT technicians at our Mount Isa department, with the fourth loader, an NLK R2900G, being the final of its sort ever offered by Caterpillar,” stated RCT Mount Isa Department Supervisor, Danny Ballard. “The R2900G mannequin has been a prolific underground loader, and this remaining sale actually marks the tip of an period.”
The well-established mine includes an underground laborious rock mining operation and a floor processing facility. At the moment, operators management the underground LHD loader fleet from a number of AutoNav Centres positioned each on the floor and underground. This setup removes operators from the machine cab, inserting
them in safer and extra comfy environments whereas sustaining full operational functionality and decreasing publicity to underground hazards.
“Automating underground loaders considerably improves operator security whereas delivering stronger enterprise outcomes for the mine,” stated Ballard. “When websites use our expertise, operators are faraway from hurt’s means and positioned into safer, extra comfy environments. That’s good for folks and productiveness.”
The positioning started utilizing RCT’s Tele (tele-remote) programs within the late Nineteen Nineties and was among the many first websites to undertake AutoNav. It additionally turned one of many earliest operations to remotely function loaders from the floor.
“The positioning has been a loyal buyer for a few years, and we proceed to work intently collectively as they make investments additional in automation,” Ballard stated. Roughly 18 months in the past, the location upgraded to RCT’s digital communications system, bettering underground wi-fi functionality, system reliability, and visible readability. “We stay up for persevering with to help the staff on their automation journey, made doable by our OEM agnostic, scalable, and adaptive expertise,” Ballard
added.
