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
RCT – Powered by Epiroc is proud to have supported the rapid deployment of AutoNav Lite (semi-automation) on two dozers, helping to accelerate stabilisation and remediation activities at a major gold mining operation in Northern Canada.
The project involved commissioning two remotely operated dozers to undertake critical works within controlled areas of the operation, enabling operators to manage ground conditions from a safe environment.
From approval to commissioning, the project was completed to meet the grave situational needs.
“This was significantly faster than the typical build and deployment cycle for comparable automation solutions,” said RCT’s Global Operations Manager, Rick Radcliffe.
The equipment was manufactured, assembled and shipped from RCT – Powered by Epiroc’s facilities in Brisbane and Perth before being transported to Canada for installation and commissioning.
RCT worked alongside technicians from Epiroc and local site teams to integrate the solution onto two Caterpillar D10 dozers, which are now operated remotely from dual AutoNav Centres established on site.
Operators are not only removed from potential danger, but they are also able to carry out operations while increasing productivity on site.
RCT experts, including Andrew Taylor, Keegan Koertzen and Adam Gough, led on-site commissioning and operator training, ensuring operators could quickly transition to AutoNav Lite operations effortlessly.
“The project highlights how the team can work together to meet urgent operational requirements at short notice,” said Mr Radcliffe.
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For media enquiries, please contact:
Emma Young, RCT Communications Officer
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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For media enquiries, please contact:
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
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
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
The RCT - Powered by Epiroc team at the Mt Isa branch has successfully completed its first installation of the AutoNav system on a CAT R2900 XE Hybrid loader for AIC Mines at the Eloise Copper Mine in Northwest Queensland.
The new machine was purchased by AIC Mines to support its ongoing efforts to extract high-grade ore from its underground copper and gold mine, which has been in production since 1996.
The Eloise Copper Mine has a long-standing relationship with RCT, with the Mt Isa branch providing state-of-the-art solutions to the site for over 20 years.
"As a result, the site is operating with our automation technology across most of its fleet including their CAT R2900Gs," said Mt Isa Branch Manager, Danny Ballard.
"This marks the first time the branch has worked with CAT's Hybrid loader, presenting a new platform for innovation," he said.
While it was the first time the branch had installed the technology on this specific loader, the talented team were able to deliver the project in a similar timeframe to that of a standard installation.
“This achievement is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our team at the branch, who have gone above and beyond to ensure the project's success,” said Mr Ballard.
Eloise mine site is renowned in the mining industry for its high-grade copper ore, and has recently undertaken an expansion project which includes an access drive to the Jericho ore body. The Jericho Access Drive commenced in June last year and connect from the Eloise decline.
"It's this ore body that positions AIC Mines to be a major player in the copper market for years to come, so it's a good feeling knowing they will do this with RCT's technology," he added.
At present, the site operates all RCT-equipped mining machines from cabins, located underground.
"Plans are in progress to establish an Automation Centre on the surface, aimed at enhancing safety and productivity over shift change to enable operators to work during blasting."
"RCT's agnostic AutoNav solutions are designed to be scalable, allowing us to adapt to the evolving needs and demands of the site, both now and in the future," he said.
Operators and maintenance staff at Eloise have undergone training to ensure they are able to be self-sufficient on site. However, as with all our clients, RCT is always on hand for support when needed.
"The team are always willing to go the extra mile for our clients and our relationship with Eloise is no different."
"We will be here to support their continued growth every step of the way," he added.
Mr Ballard said the Hybrid loaders are proving to be very popular in the Mt Isa region.
"The XE loaders have been well received in the northwest, and I expect we will see continued demand to fit RCT's AutoNav solutions to these machines as their popularity grows in the area."
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For media enquiries, please contact:
Emma Young, RCT Communications Officer
RCT - Powered by Epiroc has successfully deployed its advanced agnostic AutoNav automation technology at a gold project in the Goldfields, marking a significant milestone in mining innovation and safety at the site.
This project, comprising of two sites, saw the deployment of RCT’s agnostic AutoNav system on a fleet of Sandvik LH517i loaders—with three machines installed at each site.
These loaders are operated from strategically placed AutoNav Centres, improving operator safety and increasing overall efficiency.
RCT was already a long-term client and therefore had already established both surface-based control centre and underground control cabins, offering flexibility and a safe, ergonomic working environment for operators.
“By allowing the operators to work in modern control centres, we’re delivering not just safer working conditions, but also measurable improvements,” said RCT Account Manager, Shane Smith.
“RCT’s AutoNav system ensures loader precision which in turn reduces wear and tear and fuel consumption, ensuring a cost-effective operation,” he said.
“Our system is well known for it’s ease of use, low maintenance and ability to scale across multiple sites,” he added.
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For media enquiries, please contact:
Emma Young, RCT Communications Officer
Stawell Gold Mine, 250km northwest of Melbourne, is no stranger to RCT – Powered by Epiroc. The site has been leveraging our technology to boost safety and productivity for more than 20 years.
So, when the site recently purchased two CAT 2900XE (diesel-electric) underground mining loaders to add to their fleet, they chose RCT to automate them with its multi-machine automation solution, AutoNav.
The decision to employ RCT technology was driven by its agnostic capabilities. Stawell needed to utilise their new CAT loaders alongside their existing Epiroc ST18S underground loaders that are currently equipped with RCT automation.
“Having them operate on the same software was essential for the site. They had existing RCT AutoNav Centres on the surface and underground cabins, and site wanted their operators to control all the machines from these cabins,” said RCT Brisbane Branch Manager, Owen Perrott.
The ability to do so ensures that the site doesn’t have to continuously move work areas and operator stations around the site, which can result in a loss of productivity.
“The vast majority of mines operate a single OEM fleet. Very few places operate with different OEM brand machines, which makes this project unique,” he added.
It was also the first time the Brisbane branch has installed AutoNav on this particular model of hybrid CAT machine.
“We are constantly hearing from our clients that they have been told these hybrid machines can’t be automated, so it’s a real buzz for us being able to do it. And do it well,” Mr Perrott said.
While the talented team at the Brisbane branch completed the installation of the new machines (one installation took place at CAT OEM William Adams and the other on site at Stawell), the software upgrade required specialised support from RCT’s Technician Dan Peake, who ensured this new project ran smoothly.
The whole process involved in the roll out of this project was appreciated by the client, with Stawell Gold Mine’s Electrical Superintendent, Luke Norsworthy, stating: “We appreciate the efforts put in by all and understand this can be a quite tricky transition to plan and undertake with our mixed fleet,” he said.
“This particular job required the Brisbane team to communicate with multiple people to ensure it was delivered successfully and I’m really proud of the job they have done,” said Mr Perrott.
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For media enquiries, please contact:
Emma Young, RCT Communications Officer
