RCT - Powered by Epiroc's AutoNav Tele (tele-remote) is enhancing narrow vein mining at the Vertex-operated Reward Gold Mine site at Hill End.
The state-of-the-art, agnostic automation technology has been installed on the Aramine L350D mining loader, which recently arrived from France to Epiroc's Orange Service Centre.
The small underground loader is uniquely designed for narrow vein mining, making it the perfect fit for the mining operation in New South Wales, Australia.
The historic gold mining town lay dormant for decades after mining operations ceased around 2010. Today, the site is undergoing a revival with the construction of a brand-new plant tailored for small-scale mining.
"This is more than just a machine installation," said East Coast Branch Manager, Owen Perrott.
"We're introducing technology that can access areas previously unreachable, in this narrow vein mine, unlocking gold reserves left behind for decades," he added.
With the Aramine machine, Vertex aims to efficiently extract gold from narrow, hard-to-reach veins, demonstrating the potential for innovative technology in small-scale mining operations.
RCT's AutoNav Tele allows operators to control the loader with the same functionalities from a safe location, removing them from the machine and allowing it to access the narrow vein mines with ease.
This is the first time the team has installed its technology on Vertex's Aramine loader, and we are proud to be the technology provider of choice for the project.
"Design was completed in collaboration between our experienced Field Service Technician, Tim Halstead, based in Orange, and the Brisbane Branch team," said Mr Perrott.
The installation was challenging due to the machine’s size and limited available space and required the team to collaborate with Aramine to ensure the machine met Australian Standards.
In addition to this, a custom "mini" AutoNav hut was designed and delivered on site to cater to the client’s specific needs.
The mini hut is not typically used at most sites, as it is approximately half the size of a standard AutoNav Centre. This introduced space constraints for the hardware; however, Vertex needed a mini hut to accommodate their mine structure and small portal.
"Due to the demand, I have been receiving from other sites for smaller hut offerings, I thought it would be a good opportunity to design a layout for one, from the ground up," said Mr Perrott.
"The client was extremely happy with the layout and quality of the finished product, and mentioned we should be making more of them, particularly with the previously less profitable small mines coming back to life with the current gold price," added Mr Perrott.
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Emma Young, RCT Communications Officer
Alpayana and Epiroc have reached a major milestone in Peruvian mining by automating the country’s first Load Haul Dump (LHD) using the agnostic AutoNav solution, a technology that enables remote control of multiple units and strengthens a scalable, safe, and efficient operating model.
With the opening of the WIRAQ Control Room at the Morococha Mining Unit and the implementation of Epiroc’s AutoNav technology, operators can now monitor and operate equipment simultaneously and remotely, without needing to physically enter the mine.
At more than 4,300 meters above sea level, mining operations face critical challenges in access, safety, and connectivity. The ability to operate underground equipment from the surface-level WIRAQ Control Room accelerates the transition toward a safer, more efficient, and more sustainable operation.
This milestone marks the beginning of a new era for underground mining in Peru.
“At Alpayana, we are committed to innovation, safety, and efficiency, and the inauguration of the WIRAQ Control Room at the Morococha unit is proof of that commitment. Thanks to our partnership with Epiroc, we have implemented state-of-the-art technology that enables us to operate equipment autonomously, reduce risks, and optimize processes,” said Alessandra Mandriotti, Manager of Transformation, Talent and Technology at Alpayana.
“At Epiroc, we have automated more than 1,300 underground loaders worldwide, consolidating our expertise in smart mining through agnostic solutions. In Peru, we have already implemented these automation solutions in open-pit mining. Today, we celebrate a new milestone together with Alpayana: the commissioning of the first automated loading unit in underground mining. This achievement reaffirms our commitment to driving innovation and safety across the mining industry,” said Dewi Cano, Business Line Manager, Andean–Caribbean Region.
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For media enquiries, please contact:
Emma Young, RCT Communications Officer
RCT - Powered by Epiroc are proud to have worked with Fortescue at its flagship iron ore mine and production site, Solomon to further grow their Non Line of Sight (NLOS) fleet on site and in turn further drive efficiency and productivity.
The company, well-known in the industry for its autonomous operations, has now added five NLOS excavators to its ever-expanding fleet, thanks to the team at RCT- Powered by Epiroc.
RCT’s Perth Solutions Team was tasked with the design, installation and commissioning of two CAT 350 Excavators and four D10T Dozers with AutoNav Tele, RCT’s Teleremote control solution, which allows the operator to control the machines from the comfort of an automation centre.
“It allows them to comfortably control machines in real-time with the help of strategically placed cameras and sensors,” said RCT’s Solutions & Customer Service Manager for RCT Perth, Steven Appleton.
Even though the operator is removed from the cab of the machine, they receive real-time data through a graphical interface and a touch display which provides them with instant access to machine data and operational insights.
“While AutoNav Tele is stage 2 of RCT’s Automation journey, our technology range is fully scalable and can grow with Solomon’s mining needs, if necessary,” he added.
At Solomon these automated machines are used as ancillary machines for rock breaking and tray cleaning (back scratching) as required on site.
“This task requires an operator to control the machine for very short bursts of time, meaning there was a lot of coming and going which is quite time consuming and results in lost time,” said Mr Appleton.
“Our AutoNav Tele technology eliminates this downtime by removing them from the cab of the machine and allowing them to attend to a number of other tasks in the interim, instead of having them sit idle in the machine, waiting to be picked up each time.”
At Solomon the operators are controlling multiple machines from an AutoNav Centre, located in an office location on site, which also plays a part in reducing downtime associated with shift changeovers etc.
RCT training was also provided to operators and maintenance staff to ensure the technology can be self-sufficient on site.
Our technology has been in place some time now and the feedback from the client has been positive.
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For media enquiries, please contact:
Emma Young, RCT Communications Officer
A prominent mine in New South Wales, Australia, took a significant step forward in the modernisation of their equipment and operations by going digital with RCT - Powered by Epiroc.
Renowned for extracting tin, lead, and zinc, the site's commitment to innovation has led to this upgrade which will ensure greater efficiency, safety, and sustainability on site.
For years, the site has successfully operated a fleet of CAT 2900s using RCT’s analogue system.
Recently the decision was made to transition their production fleet of CAT 2900s to a full digital system - AutoNav Lite, allowing the site access to enhanced diagnostics and predictive maintenance.
Operators control the Automated LHD machines from customised Telecabins, mounted to Toyota Land Cruiser Utilities.
Now, with the implementation of a digital operation, they can monitor machinery status, from these vehicles without needing to go back to a central control room to observe/diagnose the LHD information.
This significantly increases operational efficiency and improves safety by reducing the time workers spend in potentially hazardous underground areas.
Although these cabins were already in operation, they underwent a customised digital hardware upgrade to meet the site’s specific needs. This included network management, and connectivity, ensuring that even the most remote areas of the mine are always connected.
The site’s move to digital is only the beginning. The company plans to continue refining and enhancing its systems to further optimise machine performance. With new hardware and technology being developed at a rapid pace, the mine owner has an eye on further innovations that will keep the mine at the forefront of the industry.
This digital transition not only strengthens the mine’s operational capabilities but also positions the site as a leader in mining innovation adoption.
For media enquiries, please contact:
Emma Young, RCT Communications Officer
Catalyst Metals' Plutonic gold mine in North Meekatharra, Western Australia, has made the transformative move from analogue to digital operations in preparations for the future of mining technology thanks to RCT - Powered by Epiroc.
This upgrade is not limited to new equipment but also includes comprehensive upgrades to existing machines, including Sandvik and CAT loaders with the implementation of RCT's AutoNav package.
This state-of-the-art technology allows the mobile machines to navigate autonomously with higher precision, ensuring increased productivity and a better overall working environment for operators.
A major highlight of this transition is the adoption of modular platforms, allowing operators to control the loaders from inside the comfort of a light vehicle that they can drive to the working stope. With distances between stopes ranging from 3 to 5 kilometres, this provides a flexible and scalable solution for the site which further drives operational efficiency. In addition, these platforms are designed for easy integration with the newly upgraded digital systems on-site, ensuring seamless communication and data transfer across vast areas of the mine.
To support this digital evolution, the site also upgraded its communication network with RCT Connect, our very own advanced digital Wi-Fi solution.
This upgrade allows operators and maintenance teams to access real-time diagnostics and receive alerts about potential issues before they lead to costly downtime.
Furthermore, the digital systems come with higher tolerance and precision, reducing the likelihood of overheating and other mechanical problems that are often associated with analogue. Therefore, the result is not just improved performance, but also longer equipment lifespans and lower maintenance costs.
This latest transition from analogue to digital represents a pivotal, forward-thinking approach to modern mining, reinforcing Plutonic's commitment to innovation and shaping a more sustainable and technologically advanced future.
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For media enquiries, please contact:
Emma Young, RCT Communications Officer
The foundations for RCT were laid by the desire of one man to safeguard those working in a notoriously dangerous industry and ensure their return home to their families at the end of the working day.
From here, RCT's Muirhead Protection range became the cornerstone of the company, evolving to protect both operators and machines. More than 50 years later, the Protection product range remains relevant, saving lives and reducing wear and tear on machines worldwide.
The Muirhead Protection range includes a variety of products, such as Idle Timers, Speed Limiters, Park Brake Interlocks, Fatigue Monitoring, Incline Controllers, and Engine Protection. These solutions were designed in conjunction with end-users for maximum effectiveness in real-world scenarios.
Primarily designed to safeguard operators, every solution also enhances machine availability and longevity, significantly boosting the client's bottom line. While the solutions are still in demand, the leading products differ depending on the target audience.
For example, Fuel Cap Isolation is highly popular in underground mining, whereas Raised Tray Warning systems are best sellers in surface mining.
"A very common occurrence in the industry saw miners drive off with the fuel nozzle still in the fuel tank," said RCT's General Manager, Dave Holman.
"This was due to simple distraction while performing this mundane task." This often caused thousands of dollars in damage to the fuel station and machine and resulted in wasted fuel.
The Fuel Cap Isolation solution is a simple yet effective device that ensures the machine (any make or model) remains locked out and in a safe state during refuelling.
In surface mining, the Raised Tray Warning system is the most popular. This device prevents damage by limiting the tray's raised angle, restricting it from going too high for the space. "This common occurrence caused damage to the machine and work area. This simple device alerts the driver before any damage occurs," said Mr Holman.
Over the years, the range has evolved significantly. While new products are no longer released as frequently, RCT has focused on refining the existing range. "The solutions work well in key areas of the industry, so we looked at consolidating multiple devices into one controller," said Holman.
"Where we once had a machine fitted with four controllers, we now have one controller that does the job of all four."
"It's this innovative thinking that has kept RCT relevant for 50+ years," said Holman.
Discover more about how RCT's Muirhead Protection range can safeguard your operations. Visit the Protection page, download the brochure, or xxxxx xx to see how our innovative solutions can benefit you.
In the mining industry, ensuring the safety of operators and personnel is of utmost priority. However, achieving this goal comes with its own set of unique challenges. One of the most pressing issues is the risk of accidents involving operators working with or around underground drills. The confined and hazardous environment of underground drilling operations amplifies the likelihood of injuries, making it imperative to adopt effective safety measures.
Operators working with underground drills are often exposed to hazardous conditions that include limited visibility, constrained movement, and the proximity of heavy machinery. These challenges mean that operators must navigate through dark, tight spaces while managing the powerful and dangerous equipment necessary for drilling. Additionally, the noise and vibrations generated by drilling machines can further obscure an operator's awareness of their surroundings, increasing the potential for accidents.
The RCT Drill Stop Personnel Exclusion system is an innovative solution designed to address the critical challenge of operator safety in underground drilling operations. This advanced system, which can be installed on any drill regardless of make or model, enhances operator safety by detecting movement along the sides of the machine when the drill is armed and operating.
In a high-risk environment where every second counts, the RCT Drill Stop Personnel Exclusion system provides an essential safeguard against accidents, significantly reducing the risk of injury to personnel.
By integrating these advanced features, the RCT Drill Stop Personnel Exclusion system offers a comprehensive safety solution for underground drill operations, where traditional safety measures may fall short. By implementing this system, companies can achieve a higher standard of safety, protecting both their workforce and equipment, making it an indispensable tool for the industry.
Download the flyer or xxxxxxx xx xxx, and let’s dig deep into a world of safety!
Our client, based in Western Australia's Pilbara region, is now operating CAT 349D Excavators equipped with RCT's AutoNav, complete with rock breaker and back scratch attachments.
The state-of-the-art technology enables operators to control multiple machines in real time using strategically positioned cameras and sensors.
This project, which was undertaken by RCT's Perth Customer Service and Custom departments, saw the installation and deployment of RCT's AutoNav, four cameras with additional Pan Tilt Zoom (PTZ) cameras and an AutoNav Centre.
"This project marks the debut of our technology on this model of excavator, and the installation was seamless," said RCT's Account Manager, Phill Dean.
"We pride ourselves on being able to deliver fit-for-purpose solutions for our clients and this project is a prime example of this."
This technology has been successfully implemented on-site, with our client recently celebrating the success of the project and the positive effect it has had on enhancing operational efficiency and eliminating human interaction across hazardous work environments.
In addition to this, the site will be able to transform the way workers carry out their jobs for the better.
"Automating the process relocates the operator from the machine and allows them to control the excavator from an operator station, which can be positioned on site or potentially in a city location," said Mr Dean.
Training was also provided to operators and as with all RCT's solutions, it comes with our comprehensive customer support.
The success of this project has seen our client actively explore additional opportunities to expand and improve these activities across all its mining operations globally.
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For media enquiries, please contact:
Emma Young, RCT Communications Officer
Safety and efficiency are crucial in industries that rely on the operation of commercial vehicles. Sectors such as logistics, transportation, mining, and construction constantly face the challenge of maintaining optimal visibility and reducing accidents.
One of the main challenges these industries encounter is ensuring drivers have clear visibility 24/7. Blind spots and restricted visibility can result in accidents, endangering both personnel and equipment. The dynamic and often hazardous environments these industries operate in amplify the need for comprehensive visibility solutions.
In high-stakes environments like construction sites, busy logistics hubs, and mining operations, there is little room for error. These settings are bustling with activity and heavy machinery, making the potential for accidents significant. Drivers need to be acutely aware of their surroundings to navigate safely. Therefore, having a clear view of the vehicle's surroundings is not just important; it's essential for maintaining safety and operational integrity.
RCT's Maxi Vision® offer cutting-edge technology designed to meet the demanding requirements of these industries, ensuring unmatched safety and operational excellence. By providing a comprehensive view of the vehicle's surroundings, Maxi Vision® help eliminate blind spots, reduce accidents, and safeguard both personnel and equipment.
RCT's Maxi Vision® are not just tackling visibility challenges; they are redefining the standards of safety and efficiency in operations. With unmatched, round-the-clock visibility, the cameras are enhancing safety protocols and streamlining operations, day and night.
Are you ready to elevate your operations with superior clarity? Download the guide or xxxxxxx xx to discover how Maxi Vision® can provide you with a crystal-clear perspective on safer, more efficient operations.
Mining Contractor PT Pamapersada Nusantara (PAMA) has made history by becoming the first open pit coal mine in the region to implement Automation at its Kalimantan coal mine site in Indonesia, and RCT was chosen to do it.
RCT's Automation technology has been embraced on site across its dozer fleet, consisting of two Komatsu Dozers (D155 and D375). These dozers have been equipped with RCT's Line-of-Sight solution, AutoNav LOS and portable vision to give operators an even clearer view and improve safety for operators.
"This project is an important and historic moment for improving operational safety management in the Indonesian coal mining world," said SHE Management Development Department Head, Pak Ridha.
The site's decision to move from manual operation to Automation was safety driven.
"As we know, mining involves several high-risk areas related to bulldozer work, such as near water, mud, cliffs, heights and land clearing areas. With this application of technology, the level of risk in these areas can be reduced significantly," added Mr Ridha.
RCT's Account Manager, Shane Smith, said this is exactly what RCT's agnostic technology is designed to do.
"The solution was ideal to dramatically improve safety, removing the operators from the dozer and allowing them to carry out their role from a safe position on site," said Mr Smith.
"The dozers are commonly used in the tailing ponds and dams, which are notoriously dangerous areas to work in due to the potential of slips and the dozers becoming stuck," he added.
This project was carried out by RCT's bespoke department, RCT Custom, who added the portable vision to the off-the-shelf solution.
"We firmly believe in catering to a client's exact needs, so this is where our custom department is so important. They can create and deliver fit-for-purpose solutions, which is what RCT prides itself on delivering."
Mr Smith said it was great to work with the team from PT Pamapersada Nusantara.
"They have been fantastic to work with, very professional and kind, with a great ability to understand the technology," he said.
Mr Ridha said the site will continue to develop and implement this new competency which will become a competitive advantage for PAMA to develop and support business sustainability.
RCT is proud to have worked on such a notable project in the region.
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For media enquiries, please contact:
Emma Young, RCT Communications Officer
