Numerical Study for Determining the Strength Limits of a Powered Longwall Support

Abstract

The process of designing a longwall powered support is extremely complex and requires many operations related to the creation of a complete machine. The powered support section is one of the basic elements of the longwall system. It acts as protection for the working space and takes part in the process of excavating and transporting the spoil. The implementation of the support that meets the guidelines of the manufacturer and user requires an endurance analysis at the design stage conducted according to the regulations in force. The main objective of this research, pursued by the authors, was to perform the analysis of the ultimate strength of selected elements of the designed powered support section. The research was carried out with the use of special software that uses the finite element method. This article presents the analysis of the strength limits conducted with the help of the finite element method, determining the strength of selected elements of the longwall support section. The solutions proposed by the authors include changes in the structure and properties of the material in the design process. The aim of the proposed solution was to obtain a model with strength value that meets safety standards. The research results are a valuable source of knowledge for designers. Solutions of this type set examples for spatial models of the longwall support section being designed currently. The analysis presented in the article, together with the results of the research and the conclusions resulting from them, may improve the safety and effectiveness of powered supports.

Sustainable Development Processes for Renewable Energy Technology

“…Szurgacz et al [10] present the design of a driven section of support (hydraulic reinforcement) used in a system for deep reservoir mining. The research itself was focused on the analysis of the bearing capacity of selected elements of the proposed driven support section with the application of software using the finite element method.…”

Failure Rate of Longwall System Machines by the Type of Failure – Case Study

“…A longwall of a specific length, panel length and height is extracted by means of a mechanised longwall complex equipped with a cutting and loading machine in the form of a longwall shearer or a static coal plow. Both the plow and shearer complexes are very well-known and have been extensively discussed in many articles [1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15][16].…”

Extraction and Application of Hydraulic Support Safety Valve Characteristic Parameters Based on Roof Pressure Data

“…Powered roof supports are divided into units, which consist of mechanical structural components, hydraulic systems, and electrohydraulic control systems. The main element of the hydraulic system of powered supports is the hydraulic legs, which extend between the canopy and sill piece [2][3][4]. These hydraulic legs ensure that an adequate force is maintained on the roof of the longwall face in the section.…”

“…(2) Routine assessments of the safety valve conditions and pressure calibration are required, resulting in elevated maintenance costs. (3) The absence of foundational data for safety valves under actual operational conditions hinders precise evaluations of their compatibility with roof movement.…”