The application of a numerical model to longwall coal mine roadway design

Abstract

Nonlinear finite element numerical models were developed for two longwall roadway sites for which a substantial amount of measured data existed. A range of input parameters had to be developed in order to idealise strata, caved waste and supports. A number of simplifying assumptions were made due to the complexity of the models. Comparisons of simulated and measured data indicated that the inability of the FEM package to simulate bed separation was a major limitation. Results nevertheless indicated that, should bed separation be incorporated, an acceptable idealisation of rock mass and support interaction may be possible.