Over the past 18 months, the global training simulator provider has introduced over 20 new high-fidelity CYBERMINE simulator cab types.

This included simulators for a number of CAT models, including underground ADTs, LHDs, a rope shovel, an articulated truck and a haul truck.

ThoroughTec executive vice-president and director of global business development Greg Lew said the company now had the largest deployment of Cat underground advanced simulators.

ThoroughTec’s advanced Cat simulators can now be found in all the major mining regions globally.

Mining houses are recognising that training simulators can be worthwhile and useful investment, Lew said.

At Rio Tinto’s massive Oyu Tolgoi copper and gold mine in Mongolia, ThoroughTec’s fourth-generation CYBERMINE simulators were being used to their maximum potential.

“We’ve received reports from Oyu Tolgoi that they’re using their simulators for up to 20 hours a day,” Lew said.

“This includes cabs for an ADT, bolter, LHD and a shotcrete sprayer from three different OEMs.

“Offering a diverse and extensive range of cabs from many of the OEMs means mines can get the most out of their simulators, with the safety and productivity benefits realised in the actual mining fleet.”

ThoroughTec last year added two new products to complement its range of CYBERMINE Full Mission Simulators (FMS).

The CYBERMINE Computer Based Trainer (CBT) is an introductory level tool developed to walk novice recruits through a particular vehicle’s basic controls and operation, as well as the mine environment, site operating procedures and safety checks.

The CBT makes use of 2D and 3D computer animations, video, audio and still photographs displayed on a high performance off-the-shelf PC. All users and their results can be recorded on a central database.