Hydraulic power systems for powered roof supports, depending on the place of installation of hydraulic aggregates, can be divided into local and central systems. Central systems are gaining popularity and a number of their features are more advanced compared to the local system. However, it is widely believed that their main disadvantage is the necessity to install pipelines with larger lengths, which can have a significant impact on the obtained hydraulic power supply parameters by occurring pressure losses on the pipeline length. This paper discusses the impact of these parameters on the correct operation of the powered roof support section, which is connected with the uninterrupted continuity of the production cycle in a longwall.

No abstract

No abstract

The degree of utilisation of machinery and equipment is an important factor influencing the volume of daily output of an underground hard coal mine. Consequently, it also affects the efficiency and economic performance of an underground mining plant. The main task of a new pumping station is to ensure safety and continuity of the operation process in both active and new longwalls in the future. The article presents a modern and innovative pumping station that meets the assumptions of Industry 4.0. The power units supplying a longwall complex included in the central pumping station were selected so as to minimise the number of failures. The interruptions in the technological process of coal mining related to the lack or insufficient pressure of the working medium in the supply bus of the powered roof support are caused by inadequate type of hydraulic pumps. The paper presents a developed concept of an innovative central hydraulic pumping station feeding a longwall complex based on a powered roof support. The presented implementation—starting from the concept through design and implementation—has contributed to the improvement of working conditions and safety.

A brief description of the program of Industry 4.0 and the impact it has on the economy and its development provided by the students show how the young generation sees the concept–a reality they themselves will soon be engage in as workers. The paper discusses the principles of Industry 4.0 and what they mean to Polish economy. The authors developed a survey and conducted it among students of the Wrocław University of Technology, Faculty of Geoengineering, Mining and Geology, and engineers from the Polska Grupa Górnicza S.A. KWK ROW Ruch Chwałowice. The survey was of an informative nature. It covered a group of underground workers holding different positions including miners, electricians or mechanical fitters. The respondents are employed to carry on various tasks related to operation and maintenance of mining machinery and devices. The questionnaire consists of 15 questions. They were arranged in such a way that the participants could respond in an efficient and quick way. Additionally, the questionnaire contained information about the seniority of a given employee, education and age. The results of the survey demonstrate how employees understand technological change. They can be helpful in implementing the development and implementation of new technologies.