The main objective of the research is to assess the possibility of using control systems of electro-hydraulic shield supports for researching geomechanical processes in the rock massif. The research aims to increase the efficiency of longwall mining technology. As a result of the research, changes of pressure distribution in the hydraulic powered shield supports along the width and length of the longwall panel are established. Pressure changes at various speeds of a longwall advance have been established. Recommendations about an increase in efficiency of underground mining of coal seams are made. The paper novelty consists in establishment of dependences of the maximum loads upon a shield on the speed of the longwall advance.