Numerical modelling study of strata and support behaviour in thick seam longwall workings

Safe and successful face operations in thick seam workings require a better understanding of rock-support interactions, to assist selection of a suitable mining horizon and support system for sustainable strata control. The results of a numerical modelling study of strata behaviour during thick seam longwall mining under strata conditions ranging from easy to difficult to cave are presented. A parametric study has been conducted to assess the effect of roof behaviour in thick seam workings. It is shown that the nature of the overlying strata plays an important role in defining support performance and the behaviour of strata during progressive mining of thick coal seams. The numerical model has been found to be helpful in improving the understanding of complex rock mechanics issues related to thick seam longwall workings.