RCT, a leader in the autonomous solutions space, has announced that it is the first independent technology provider to successfully automate Caterpillar’s recently released R1700K underground loader.
The K-series is the latest iteration of Cat’s heavy equipment product range with several new features.
RCT recently successfully installed and commissioned its ControlMaster Guidance Automation solution onto a Cat R1700K underground loader in Kalgoorlie just weeks after it was introduced into the Western Australian market.
Guidance Automation allows operators to manage these loaders from a ControlMaster Automation Centre located either on surface or within designated areas of the mine.
Brendon Cullen, RCT’s automation and control product manager, said the work is a major milestone for the company.
“RCT has a long history of successfully integrating with machinery developed by any original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and this project is no different,” Cullen said in a release.
“Going forward, we will be able to commission ControlMaster Guidance Automation on the CAT R1700K loader on any mine site backed by technical support from our regional offices around the world.”
Last year, RCT set up its ControlMaster Guidance Automation onto Sandvik’s newly released I-series loader and previously also installed ControlMaster Guidance Automation on a new Eprioc ST18 loader.
RCT will provide full technical assistance and ongoing after-sales support from its Kalgoorlie branch to regional mining companies that purchased the Cat R1700K loader.
(This article first appeared in the Canadian Mining Journal)