PLS has launched the Cat® MineStar™ Fleet system at its Pilgangoora Operation, in Western Australia, as it looks to enhance safety and productivity.
The fleet management system (FMS) tracks, monitors and manages fleet health, performance and efficiency, with a focus on safety – detecting machine locations and surroundings to prevent accidents, PLS says. The system also collects real-time data from equipment and converts it into actionable information to maximise an operation’s potential.
Brett McFadgen, Chief Operating Officer at PLS, told IM that this is the first FMS the operation has used.
“Through our work with WesTrac and Caterpillar on the launch of MineStar, we expect to achieve lower fleet cycle times and fuel usage, while increasing equipment utilisation,” he said, adding that the upgrade was part of the company’s commitment to operational excellence, innovation, improved efficiency and putting safety first across its operation.
Project Manager, Andrew Bannon, said in a press release that the system brings a step-change in operational precision and material management. “High-precision machine guidance helps our operators dig, grade and load according to plan,” he explained. “That means better accuracy and smarter material movement.
“It also tracks the amount and types of materials moved and loaded, which helps us optimise material control and reduce waste.”
Pilgangoora produced 754,600 t of spodumene concentrate in the year to June 30, 2025, up from 725,300 t the year earlier.