Study on Controlling Parameters and Technological Optimization of Strip Longwall Top Coal Caving in Thick Coal Seams

Abstract

Based on the geological and mining conditions of face 3107 at Liang Baoshi coal mine, China, the numerical programs FLAC3D 2.10 and PFC2D 2.10 were used to analyze the parameters controlling the failure, caving and the coal recovery rate in Strip Longwall Top Coal Caving (SLTCC). The analyzed parameters are face length in dip direction, mining height, the span of coal caving, and sequence of coal drawing. The results show that the application of SLTCC for a limited face length is not favourable to coal failure, and it increases top coal loss. A sound engineering selection of technological parameters is therefore important to efficient mining in thick coal seams. The numerical results show that a face design of 3 m of cutting height, 0.8 m of caving span, and alternate drawing sequence results in high coal recovery rate, simple mining tasks, and efficient operation of face equipment.