The Elements of Innovation Discovered
The Elements of Innovation Discovered
Underground mine transitions to RCT automation solution Metal Tech News – September 9, 2020
An operator guides ControlMaster outfitted autonomous underground mining equipment via a remote station complete with operator chair, joystick and two heavy duty 27-inch LCD displays that provide a clear view of the working area.
G-Dash provides operators the information to make smarter decisions with real-time graphical representations of equipment position, angle, engine RPMs and other critical data clearly displayed on a dedicated monitor.
RCT, an Australia-based autonomous solutions specialist that delivers products and support to clients in 71 countries around the globe, said it has successfully commissioned the underground loader fleet at Evolution Mining's Mungari gold mine in Western Australia with RCT's proprietary ControlMaster automation technology.
"RCT's automation solution was previously established at one of Evolution Mining's other projects and is now helping the Mungari operation further optimize production capabilities," said RCT Business Development Manager Mining Ryan Noden.
ControlMaster is an aftermarket automation solution that can be installed on any make or model of mining equipment. RCT says this system improves operational efficiency and operator safety while lessening equipment damage and downtime.
Evolution, a mid-tier gold producer with mines in Australia and Canada, has shifted its tele-remote operated underground loader fleet to RCT's fully autonomous technology solution.
RCT installed and commissioned its ControlMaster Guidance Automation solution onto one CAT R2900 underground loader and one CAT R1700 underground loader at Mungari.
"We have been working with Evolution Mining for the past few months planning the transition to RCT's automation solution that will deliver strong productivity gains," said Noden.
RCT also supplied two automation centers fitted with the company's G-Dash guidance system at designated work zones within the mine. G-Dash provides remote operators with real-time graphical machine data that empowers them to increase travel speed while also reducing machine damage.
The RCT package for Evolution's Mungari gold mine also includes a communications network; specialized RCT parts cabinet with critical spare parts; and comprehensive onsite training packages for machine operators and maintenance personnel.
"Our ControlMaster Guidance Automation technology sets Evolution Mining onto a pathway to full mine digitization with the ability to scale our technology as the mine develops and introduce the latest technology upgrades when required," Noden said.
"Mungari will receive on-ground technical support through our branch in Kalgoorlie backed by a team of highly experienced automation specialists," he said.
Evolution said it is already realizing improvements with the RCT automation system at Mungari.
"Evolution Mining has seen a dramatic reduction in remote-related machine damage and a huge improvement in operator comfort and workplace enjoyment," said a spokesman for the Australian gold miner.
With more than 16 years of covering mining, Shane is renowned for his insights and and in-depth analysis of mining, mineral exploration and technology metals.
Reader Comments(0)