Longwall mining is the only technically proven and well-established mining method used worldwide for extracting coal from deep mines. In this paper, two-dimensional (2D) continuum finite-element models of longwall panels are developed and analyzed to understand the interaction of hydraulic-powered support with surrounding rock strata (i.e., roof, floor, and coal seam). The finite-element models thus developed include the structural components of hydraulic-powered support, the surrounding rock mass, and broken rocks. The study focuses on the evaluation of strata behavior while the coal face is supported by hydraulic-powered supports of different capacities. The results from finite-element models are further analyzed in terms of stress distribution in hydraulic legs, abutment, and roof-to-floor convergence. Statistical relations are developed based on deterministic finite-element results, which provide a good correlation with the field measurements.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Verma et al. (2013) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched one closely related paper. Consider it for comparative context: