Caterpillar Holdings Australia announced the acquisition of Australia-based Minetec from Codan Limited. Specializing in communications technology for mining, Minetec supplies tracking and data communications networks as well as a purpose-built set of software applications that address both productivity and safety for underground mining.
Since 2018, Caterpillar and Minetec have worked under a collaborative agreement to develop and deliver technologies targeting the unique challenges faced with underground hard rock mining operations. The result has delivered unique site solutions that have expanded the capabilities of MineStar to offer real-time, GPS-type tracking for the underground space. As part of the acquisition agreement, Codan will provide manufacturing services to Caterpillar for up to five years to ensure a successful transition and continuous supply to customers.
“The acquisition will further drive integration of Minetec’s world-class underground products and capabilities, such as task management, high-precision tracking, wireless communications and proximity detection into MineStar. As miners move to automate underground mines, this will further enhance MineStar’s ability to provide the equivalent of GPS underground and improve safety and productivity,” said Jim Hawkins, general manager of Cat MineStar Solutions.
Vice President, Caterpillar Resource Industries, Marc Cameron, adds, “The Minetec acquisition is one more example of our continued investment in automation services. We are well positioned to grow services through our large installed base of connected equipment, outstanding field technology, and decades of product, service and application expertise that turn experience into useful insights for customers.”
