WesTrac has launched a new cutting-edge Technology Experience Centre in Tomago, NSW, to demonstrate how Cat and WesTrac technology can increase site safety, productivity, efficiency, and sustainability in mining and construction operations.
“The Centre will greatly benefit our customers by delivering a practical and educational experience with the cutting-edge technology used by WesTrac and our Cat products,” WesTrac Chief Executive NSW/ACT Adrian Howard said.
Howard noted how the Centre reinforces WesTrac’s commitment to helping mining and heavy construction customers implement better technology into their fleets.
One of the features of this facility is a Remote Operator Station, where visitors can remotely operate a Cat 320 Next Generation Hydraulic Excavator, which is located in the WesTrac dig pit, and other Cat machines like mini excavators, skid steer loaders, dozers, and drills.
Howard noted they want their customers to feel confident about using technology to deliver improved safety and productivity outcomes to their operations when they walk away from the Technology Experience Centre.
The latest 3D printing solutions and live demonstrations of the Cat MineStar technology will also be showcased in the facility.
The Cat MineStar technology suite offers solutions for precision machine control and guidance, automation, remote operation, fleet health optimisation, and fatigue monitoring. Meanwhile, the Cat MineStar Command can be used for remote-control operations to full machine automation in construction and mining applications.
WesTrac and Caterpillar, in collaboration with Thiess, have deployed the Cat MineStar Command for drilling and achieved a world-first remote operation of three drill rigs by a single operator. They also deployed line-of-sight and non-line-of-sight dozer solutions in different mine sites in NSW.
The technology centre is supported by the WesTrac Training Institute, which offers accredited and post-trade training to customers and teamers and operator training for Cat equipment and technology operation.
“We wanted a space where we could provide our customers with greater insight into both the competitive advantage of Cat products and the ongoing development of future technology at WesTrac,” WesTrac Resource Industries General Manager NSW/ACT Jody Scott stated.
“When designing the Centre, it was vital for customer experience to remain at the forefront, which is why it can accommodate meeting spaces and events as well as training with the Cat products our customers have invested in,” Scott added.
