Rio Tinto picks Cat for new iron ore mine project

Rio Tinto has recently signed an agreement with Caterpillar to supply and support mining machines, automation and enterprise technology systems for its new Koodaideri iron ore mine in Western Australia.

Under the agreement, Rio Tinto, Caterpillar and regional Cat dealer, Westrac, will work together to create an automated mine operation that will utilise data analytics and integration to enhance safety, optimise production, boost mining machine utilisation and lower costs.

“Technology is rapidly changing our mining operations as we harness innovation to make our operations safer, smarter and more productive,” said Rio Tinto Iron Ore chief executive, Chris Salisbury.

“This extension of our partnership with Caterpillar and WesTrac represents an exciting step for our business.”

Caterpillar group president for Resource Industries, Denise Johnson, said the company looks forward to apply its proven mining equipment and technology and implement its MineStar autonomy solutions at Koodaideri.

“We are excited to work together to advance Rio Tinto’s mine automation and digitalisation program,” she said.

Construction work on the Koodaideri iron ore mine has commenced, and first production is expected in late 2021. Once complete, the mine will have an annual capacity of 43 million tonnes that will underpin the production of Rio Tinto's flagship iron ore product - the Pilbara Blend, according to the mining corporation.

As mine construction advances, WesTrac will manage logistics of mining machine delivery and commissioning and will play a key role in implementing technology solutions.

“WesTrac is excited to be part of the Koodaideri project and to work with Caterpillar to deliver groundbreaking equipment solutions to support Rio Tinto’s Mine of the Future vision,” said WesTrac chief executive officer, Jarvas Croome.

SEE ALSO:

Cat lands next-gen 20-tonners

Cat lands 740 GC articulated dump truck