Leading autonomous solutions provider RCT has finalised an automation project with port, logistics and infrastructure specialist Qube Bulk at the Whyalla Port in South Australia.

In 2019, RCT installed and commissioned its ControlMaster® Line-of-Sight automation solution as well as a single camera Teleremote solution onto a Liebherr R920 Excavator.

Qube Bulk approached RCT to develop a safer and more productive way to remove bulk cargos – such as Coal, Dolomite and Limestone – from bulk vessels to support the Whyalla steelworks operation.

Now machine operators stand at a safe distance and use the automation technology to carry out the full range of functions that would normally be available to them when sitting in the cab of the machine.

RCT Account Manager Phill Dean said the project has been a complete success.

"Our ControlMaster® solution interfaced seamlessly with the excavator’s systems and offers operators the exact same functionality available to them under the Original Equipment Manufacturers’ guidelines," he said.

"Now operators have a much safer and productive way of carrying out their work and ensuring operations at the Whyalla Port run smoothly."

Qube Whyalla Manager Sean Walsh is thrilled with the project adding "RCT carried out a great job and we are very happy with the performance overall".

RCT will continue to provide ongoing support to site personnel.