RCT – Powered by Epiroc has been supplying machine control and automation systems to a prominent silver and lead mine in Queensland for nearly 30 years, supporting its fleet of underground LHD loaders through a long-standing partnership.
The site currently operates RCT’s multi-machine solution, AutoNav, across its production loader fleet and, last year, introduced four new Cat R2900G underground LHDs to replace older machines. These additions further enhance safety and productivity on site.
“All four installations were completed by RCT technicians at our Mount Isa branch, with the fourth loader, an NLK R2900G, being the last of its kind ever sold by Caterpillar,” said RCT Mount Isa Branch Manager, Danny Ballard.
“The R2900G model has been a prolific underground loader, and this final sale truly marks the end of an era.”
The well-established mine comprises an underground hard-rock mining operation and a surface processing facility.
Currently, operators control the underground LHD loader fleet from multiple AutoNav Centres located both on the surface and underground.
This setup removes operators from the machine cab, placing them in safer and more comfortable environments while maintaining full operational capability and reducing exposure to underground hazards.
“Automating underground loaders significantly improves operator safety while delivering stronger business outcomes for the mine,” said Mr Ballard.
“When sites use our technology, operators are removed from harm’s way and placed into safer, more comfortable environments. That’s good for people and productivity.”
The site began using RCT’s Tele (tele-remote) systems in the late 1990s and was among the first sites to adopt AutoNav. It also became one of the earliest operations to remotely operate loaders from the surface.
“The site has been a loyal customer for many years, and we continue to work closely together as they invest further in automation,” Mr Ballard said.
Approximately 18 months ago, the site upgraded to RCT’s digital communications system, improving underground wireless capability, system reliability, and visual clarity.
“We look forward to continuing to support the team on their automation journey, made possible through our OEM-agnostic, scalable, and adaptive technology,” Mr Ballard added.
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For media enquiries, please contact:
Emma Young, RCT Communications Officer
RCT – Powered by Epiroc is proud to have played an integral part in the reopening of a prominent Canadian Nickel mine as it moved into open pit mining last year.
The mining services company, leading operations at the site, teamed with RCT to ensure a safe and efficient operation with the implementation of our agnostic automation.
RCT’s Canadian branch was sought after to implement the automation on site as a preventative measure to mitigate risks expected with the mine’s transition from underground to surface mining.
“Because the earth underground has been mined for some years, it’s important that any work done on the surface is done with care due to the voids,” said RCT’s Account Manager, Kole Paulin.
As a result, RCT has its agnostic AutoNav Tele installed on two CAT D10 dozers and a CAT 992 Wheel Loader.
“RCT can remote any make and model of machine, but this was the first opportunity we had to remote this specific model of Wheel Loader,” added Mr Paulin.
This state-of-the-art technology allows operators to be relocated from the machines to a more secure area where they can operate the machines safely.
In this instance, operators were relocated to an AutoNav Cabin, complete with an ergonomic chair and temperature control, resulting in improved operator comfort and reduced fatigue.
“This mining region experiences extreme cold, reaching -20 degrees. Removing operators from the machine is beneficial for overall health and job enjoyment,” said Kole.
RCT was also responsible for implementing communications on site, this was navigated by the team who had to factor in the extreme weather conditions to ensure an effective and reliable comms solution.
“RCT is unique in that we can provide multiple proven solutions to help our clients achieve their goals,” he said.
RCT also delivered a communications solution and Geofence Zone, helping to improve safety and operational efficiency in a challenging environment.
In addition to the successful implementation of cutting-edge technology, RCT also provided training to staff so they can be self-sufficient on site.
Installation was completed by the RCT team, including Technical Specialist, Keegan Koertzen and feedback has been very positive.
“Having Keegan on the team for this project made it a seamless process,” said Mr Paulin.
The successful implementation has enabled the mining services company to safely transition to surface mining operations, while leveraging RCT’s automation, safety and communications technologies to improve efficiency and protect personnel in a challenging environment.
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For media enquiries, please contact:
Emma Young, RCT Communications Officer
A world-class gold mine’s fleet of four Sandvik LH621i loaders utilises RCT’s multi-machine automation system, AutoNav, on site and has done for years to reliably improve safety and productivity.
So, when the site purchased four more machines to add to their fleet, the decision to again choose RCT’s proven agnostic automation technology was an easy one.
The open pit and underground gold operation operates its fleet of AutoNav loaders from three AutoNav Centres, strategically placed on site at various, safe vantage points.
“Operators manage the autonomous loaders from two surface stations and one underground cabin, keeping them safely out of hazardous environments,” said Brisbane Branch Manager, Owen Perrott.
The installation of AutoNav on four more Sandvik LH621i loaders was carried out seamlessly by our talented team.
“RCT offered local support by our talented local techs,” said Mr Perrott.
Standardising automation across a fleet isn’t just common practice, it’s a strategic move that drives efficiency.
“There is a myriad of benefits from having the same automation applied across a client’s entire fleet, said Mr Perrott.
“This includes an increase in productivity across the board as everyone is familiar with the technology and how it works.”
“It also streamlines the operator training process,” he added.
“The site is a long-term client, and we are proud to be their agnostic automation supplier of choice.”
“We have a great relationship with this well-known underground mining services company and are proud of the work we do to deliver to their specific needs,” said Mr Perrott.
The lease life was recently extended and RCT looks forward to continuing its partnership, providing advanced, scalable automation solutions that evolve with the site’s future needs.
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For media enquiries, please contact:
Emma Young, RCT Communications Officer
