ROSHAN GHATE & RAJAT MALEKAR 2019

GONDWANA UNIVERSITY

BACHELOR OF
MINING
ENGINEERING

UNDERGROUND
COAL MINING
BY
ROSHAN GHATE
RAJAT MALEKAR
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UNDERGROUND
COAL MINING

UNIT-1
INTRODUCTION AND
DEVELOPMENT

BY
ROSHAN GHATE
RAJAT MALEKAR

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SYLLABUS
Introduction
Status of coal reserves,
Status of coal mining in India,
Classification of mining method
Development
Bord and Pillar mining
Room and Pillar mining
Design of bord and pillar workings,
The panel system,
Panels and inter-panel barriers,
Size of pillars and galleries;
Methods of driving galleries;
Layouts for different combinations of loading and transport systems,
Development with continuous miner

QUESTIONS FROM 2015-2018

YEAR QUE NO. QUESTIONS MARKS
BIT NO.
S-15 1.A Give matching system of mechanisation in case of B + P system. 4M
1.B Calculate the size of panel for seam under following conditions. 7M
Seam thickness – 5m
Depth of cover – 110m
Target production – 600 TPD of coal
Incubation period – 12 Month.
Assume your own condition.
1.C Explain difference between B+P and R+P system. 5M
2.A Explain the development of seam with continuous miner. Give the 10M
required list of equipment man power. Also give proper layout showing
sequence of operation,
Also give expression for lay out distance.
2.B Give the classification of U/G coal mining method. 6M
W-15 1.A Classify U/G coal mining methods 3M
1.B Define and explain importance of incubation period. 8M
Assuming your own conditions calculate the size of panel of LHD is
used as loading m/c in the panel under following conditions.
Target production - 600 TPD of coal
Seam Thickness - 5.5 m
Incubation period - 14 month
1.C Explain the factors affecting size of coal pillar. 5M
2.A Compare Room and Pillar with Bord and Pillar mining system 5M
2.B Describe method of development with proper layout, giving required 11M
manpower to produce 600 TPD of coal under following conditions.
Depth of cover - 135m
Seam thickness - 6m
Gradient of seam - 1 in 4
Gassiness - dag - 1
If 20cm of shale band occurs at 3m from floor of seam Assume your
own conditions if not given.
S-16 1.A Classify U/G Coal mining method. 3M

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1.B Why panel system of development is preferred? Explain 3M

1.C Describe the method of development with SDL and conveyor 10M
combination to produce 600 TPD of coal under given conditions.
Seam thickness - 4.5m
depth of cover - 130m
Gradient - 1 in 5
Roof - good
Floor - good
degree of Gassiness – I
Also give proper layout, manpower requirement and expected OMS.
Assume your conditions if required.
2.A Explain factors affecting size of coal pillar. 5M
2.B Calculate size of panel producing 600 TPD of coal, 5M
if Depth of cover – 130m
Seam thickness – 4.5m
Incubation period – 12 month
Assume your own conditions if required.
2.C Explain method of development, giving proper layout, with continuous 6M
miner. Give manpower required, Expected production and OMS.
W-16 1A Explain factors affecting size of coal pillar 6M
1B Describe method of Development with proper layout to produce 600 10M
TPD of coal using LHD as loading m/c under following geo mining
conditions.
Depth of cover - 125m.
Seam thickness -4.5m.
Gradient - 1 m8.
Gassiness - degree I.
Roof - good.
Floor - good.
30 cm of shale is at height of 3m from floor of the seam.
Also give manpower required and expected OMS. Assume other suitable
conditions if required.
2A Compare Board and pillar with Room and pillar system of mining. 4M
2B Describe method of development use SDL with Haulage, to produce 650 12M
TPD of coal under following conditions.
Depth of cover - 140 m.
Seam thickness - 12 m.
Gradient of seam - 1 in 4.
Gassiness - degree - I.
Roof - good.
Floor - good.
Also give proper layout, manpower required and expected OMS.
Also explain whether seam shall be developed in one section or multi
section. Assume suitable conditions if required.
S-17 1A Compare "Bord and Pillar" system with "Room and Pillar" system of 6M
mining.
1B Explain various types of development of coal seam in case of B + P 10M
working. Explain the advantages of panel system of development.
Calculate size of the panel producing 800 TPD of coal from 5 m thick
seam lying at a depth of 160 m if incubation period is 12 months.

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2A Give the matching system of mechanization in case of fully mechanized 6M

B +P system. Explain the reasons for above
2B Explain development of a coal seam with continuous miner giving pre- 10M
requisite conditions if any. Also give the proper lay out, man power
requirement and expected production
W-17 1.A Explain concept of ''Selection of Horizon'' for development of a coal 4M
seam w.r.t B+P working.
1.B Describe with suitable layout, method of development of a 3m thick 12M
seam lying at a depth of 160m with "3" sets of LHD having bucket
capacity of 1.5m3. Also give required man power and Expected
production. Assume your own conditions.
2.A Classify U/G coal mining methods. 4M
2.B Explain method of development of a 4m thick coal seam lying at a depth 12M
of 160m with 4 sets of SDL. Give proper layout, manpower required and
expected production if bucket capacity of SDL is 1.2m3. Assume your
own conditions.
S-18 1.A Explain various types of development system in B+P mining. Why panel 6M
system is preferred? Explain.
1.B Describe a development of 6m thick seam to produce 700 TPD of coal, 10M
of geological setting of seam is as follows.
Depth of cover – 130m.
Seam thickness – 6 m
Gradient - 1 in 10.
Gassiness – degree – 1.
Roof – good.
Floor – hard
Explain the development with proper layout, man power required and
expected OMS, of LHD is used.
Assume your own data of required.
2.A Explain the factors affecting size of coal pillar. 6M
2.B Describe with proper layout, man power requirement, a development of 10M
5m thick coal seam to produce 600 TPD of coal under following geo-
mining conditions using SDL.
Depth of cover – 90m
Seam thickness – 5m.
Degree of Gassiness – degree 1.
Roof – competent.
Floor – hard.
Gradient – 1 in 5.
Also give expected OMS of SDL is to be used. Assume your Own data
of required.
W-18 1.A Classify U/G "Coal MINING METHOD" 5M
1.B Explain the factors affecting size of coal pillar. 5M
1.C Calculate the size of B+P panel to produce 600TPD of coal from a 6 m 6M
thick seam lying at a depth of 115m, of incubation period is 10 month.
Assume your own suitable data of not given.
2.A Explain the concept of deciding horizon of development. 6M
2.C Calculate the no of faces and no of heading, with which you well go for 10M
development of 5 m thick seam lying at depth of 115 m to produce 600
TPD of coal. Assume suitable own data & conditions of not given.

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Que: Explain difference between B+P and R+P system.

Ans:
ROOM+PILLAR BORD +PILLAR
Width of Gallery in room and pillar is more Width of Gallery in bord and pillar is less
Pillar size is small Pillar size is large
Ratio of pillar to gallery is more Ratio of pillar to gallery is less
Percentage of extraction during development is Percentage of extraction during development is
more less
More early return Less early return
Partial extraction (splitting is final operation) Full extraction
At greater depth it get converted into bord and It remains in the same system
pillar system
This method is suitable to seam which are at This method is suitable to both type seam which
shallow depth from the surface are at shallow depth from the surface and dipper
deposits
The method is generally adopted where coal The method is generally adopted where coal
strength is much more strength is moderate to low
Fig. Fig.

Que: Give the classification of U/G coal mining method.

Ans:
Broadly underground mining methods are classified into three types
1. Pillar mining method
2. Non-pillar mining method
3. Special mining method

1. Pillar mining method

a. Room and pillar
b. Bord and pillar

2. Non pillar mining method

a. Longwall method
b. Shortwall method

3. Special mining method (it involves pillar mining or longwall mining )

a. Thick seam
i. Slicing method
ii. Sublevel caving
iii. Integral caving
iv. Blasting gallery method
v. Hydraulic mining method

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b. Thin seam
i. Longwall mining with low profile equipment
ii. Augur mining
iii. Mole mining
c. Surface structures
i. Safety pillar
ii. Strip mining/
iii. With no subsidence
iv. With partial subsidence
v. Locating panel in central area of excavation
vi. u/g gassification

Classification based on continuity

a. Cyclic mining system
b. Continuous mining system
Classification based on degree of mechanisation
a. Semi mechanised
b. Fully mechanised
c. Automated tricks

Que: Matching system of mechanisation in B+P

Ans:
Mechanisation of B+P are classified into three categories
Degree of Coal winning Face loading Panel transport Support
mechanisation
Pick mining Manual operation Manual loading Winch/haulage Individual prop or
(pick cutting) by buckets chock support
Semi Drilling and Manually loading Haulage All types of
mechanised blasting Low duty conveyor support
Solid blasting Locomotive Prop,
Cut blasting chock,
Mechanised Haulage crossbar,
loading Low duty conveyor roof bolting.
SDL Locomotive
LHD
GAL
Fully Continuous miner Continuous miner Shuttle car Only roof bolting
mechanised

Que: Explain the factors affecting size of coal pillar.

Ans:
Factors affecting size of pillar are
1. Factor of safety
2. Strength of coal pillar
3. Moisture content
4. Life of pillar
5. Roof and floor condition
6. Geological factors
7. Load coming on pillar
8. Depth of coal seam

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1. Factor of safety:
i. Factor of safety is defined as
FOS= [Load= te/m2]
ii. If the above ratio is less than 1 then the strength is less and load of pillar is more.
iii. If the above ratio is more than 1 then the strength is more and load of pillar is less.
iv. As the depth increases the load on pillar goes on increase due to which pillar size is to be
increased.
v. For better safety purpose the factor of safety always in range of 2.
2. Strength of coal pillar:
i. Strength=
Where,
= compression strength of coal
h= height of pillar
H= depth of seam
W= width of pillar
ii. Strength =K
As the strength of material increases then the pillar strength also increase this will result in
decrease in size of pillar
3. Moisture content:
If moisture content increases it results in decrease in the strength of pillar, because cementing
material gets dissolved in water, hence pillar size is to be increased.
4. Life of pillar:
Due to mine environment (moisture, air, temperature) the pillar surface gets affected, due to which
size and strength of the pillar reduces.
If we need life of pillar for longer period, pillar strength should be more and hence it requires large
size pillar.
5. Roof and floor conditions:
i. Case I: Strong roof, weak pillar then pillar gets crushed, so require large size pillar for strength.
ii. Case II: Weak roof, strong pillar then to support the roof the size of pillar is to be increased so
that load gets distributed over pillars.
6. Geological disturbances:
It is mainly of FOLD and FAULT due to which rock is fractured. If working is traversed by
geological disturbances, we require larger size of pillar to support the fractured rock
7. Load coming on pillar
Only static load i.e. dead weight of overlying rock governs the size of pillar. Total load coming on
pillar includes weight of overlying rock/strata above pillar and 50% weight of rock column above
gallery from all sides
8. Depth of coal seam
As the depth of the coal seam increases the load coming on pillar also goes on increasing and vice
versa.
In India coal measure rock i.e. shale and sand stone having average density 2.35te/m3 and 1m2
area/meter depth.
So the size of pillar should be such that it should take load coming on pillar without fail

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Que: Explain concept of ''Selection of Horizon'' for development of a coal seam wrt B+P working.
Ans:

Selection of Horizon
There are three types of conditions in which the development can be carried out
Example: Seam thickness= 5m

Case-I Depillaring of floor

1. In this case water accumulation takes place due to the depression in panel.
2. Loading / transportation problem occurs.
Case-II Depillaring of roof
1. No water accumulation.
2. No transportation or loading problem and can extend up to other end of panel.
3. Blasting efficiency is better due to gravity.
Case-III Depillaring of floor and roof
1. Roof depillaring is up to 4m and which results in low production.
2. And while floor depillaring the same case-1 problem occurs.

Criteria to select the horizon of the development

1. Accumulation of the water, loading, and transport problem
2. More and more good quality of coal extraction
3. Seam structure which gives good quality roof
Seam shall be developed along the floor up to 3m

Que: Explain various types of development system in B+P mining.

Ans:
1. Cyclic mining method
i. Drilling
ii. Blasting
iii. Dressing
iv. Supporting
v. Face loading
vi. Transportation
2. Non cyclic mining

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Non cyclic mining is also known as continuous mining and mining operation is carried out with
continuous miner to cut the coal and loading by collector and conveying by the conveyor, from
conveyor to conveyor or to car then cutting and supporting is carried simultaneously.

Que: Bord and pillar

Ans:
Bord and pillar consists of two phase
1. Development
The development of mine by the method of working of bord and pillar consists of driving of narrow
roads, separated by a blocks of solid coal, panel to one another and connecting them by another set of
narrow parallel roadway driven nearly at right angles to first set. The stage of formation of network of
roadways is known as development.
2. Depillaring:
The coal pillars formed are extracted while of the development of the mine leasehold and this later
stage of extracting of coal pillars is known as depillaring.
Suitability conditions for bord and pillar:
i. A thicker seam than 1.5m
ii. A seam free from stone and or dirt bands
iii. Seam at moderate depth
iv. Seam with strong roof and floor which can stand for a long period after development stage is
over

Advantages of Bord and pillar:

i. Road and airways are in solid coal and their maintenance cost is low throughout the life of mine
ii. Coal output is obtained while roadways are being made during development stage, thus provides a
continuous flow of coal after the seam is touched.
iii. Unlike in longwall mining no unproductive work like strip packing.
iv. The development stage reveals the geological disturbances enable the management to plan
accordingly.
v. Surface features like railways, important building, rivers, etc. should not be disturbed by u/g method
of mining and can be well supported by solid pillars during development stage.

Disadvantages of Bord and pillar:

i. The percentage extraction losses are generally higher than in other method mining.
ii. Work is carried out at a number of working places creating a problem of supervision.
iii. At great depth working by this method becomes difficult as effect of roof pressure are not
controllable, heaving of floor and creeping of roof may result in losses of roadways.
iv. Strata control is not so easy.

Que: Why panel system is preferred? Explain.

Ans:
Panel
1. Panel is a part of seam lying within precints of mine boundaries
2. Panel is a part of seam in which extraction is complete within incubation period
3. Each panel has got its independent intake originating from main intake and we have its own return
terminate to main return.
4. Once extraction is complete we isolate the panel.
Factors effecting size of panel:
1. Target production:
More the production more will be the size of panel.

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2. Incubation period:
Less incubation period less is the size of panel

Size of pillar according to CMR-99

According to CMR-99 size of pillar with respect to the depth of seam and size (width) of gallery is given
in the form of table
Depth of seam Width of gallery
3.0 3.6 4.2 4.8
Less than 60m 12.0 15.0 18.0 19.5
60-90m 13.5 16.5 19.5 21.0
90-150m 16.5 19.5 22.5 25.0
150-240m 22.5 25.5 30.5 34.5
240-360m 28.5 34.5 39.5 45.0
More than 360m 39.0 42.0 45.0 48.0

Que: Calculate the size of panel for seam under following conditions.
Seam thickness – 5m
Depth of cover – 110m
Target production – 600 TPD of coal
Incubation period – 12 Month
Assume your own condition.
Ans:
Assuming size of gallery = 4.5m
Hence size of pillar = 25m 25m [acc to CMR-99]
1. Production = 600 TPD
2. Number of working days = 25 (on average)
3. Coal production for 12 months = 25days 600 TPD 12 month
= 180000 tonnes
4. Percentage recovery = 75%
5. Coal required in the panel =
= 240000 tonnes
6. Size of gallery = 4.5m 3m
7. Size of pillar = 25m [acc to CMR-99]
8. Coal in pillar = w b h specific gravity
= (25-4.5) (25-4.5) 3m 1.4
=1765.05
=1800 tonne (approx)
9. No. of pillar =

=
= 70.50
= 71 pillars (approx)
10. Roof coal over pillar = 25 1.8
= 1575
= 1600Te
11. Total coal in pillar including roof =1800+1600
= 3400 Te

12. Size of panel = pillars on strike side(1.2 to 1.5 times the dip direction) pillars on dip side

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71 pillar = 10 7

Que: Define and explain importance of incubation period.

Assuming your own conditions calculate the size of panel of LHD is used as loading m/c in the panel
under following conditions.
Target production - 600 TPD of coal
Seam Thickness - 5.5 m
Incubation period - 14months
Ans:
Incubation Period of Coal:
Time taken by loose coal in the area where most of the coal has already been extracted i.e. goaf catches
fire by self-oxidation due to low ignition temperature of coal.
Importance of incubation period:
Assuming size of gallery = 4.5m
Hence size of pillar = 25m 25m [acc to CMR-99]
1. Production = 600 TPD
2. Number of working days = 25 (on average)
3. Coal production for 14 months = 25days 600 TPD 14 month
= 210000tonnes
4. Percentage recovery = 75%
5. Coal required in the panel =
= 280000 tonnes
6. Size of gallery = 4.5m 3m
7. Size of pillar = 25m [acc to CMR-99]
8. Coal in pillar = w b h specific gravity
= (25-4.5) (25-4.5) 3m 1.4
=1765.05
=1800 tonne (approx)
9. no of roof coal over pillar =25
= 1575 =1600te
10. total coal in pillar including roof = 1800+1600
=3400te
11. No. of pillar =
=82.35
=83 pillars (approx)
12. Size of panel = pillars on strike side(1.2 to 1.5 times the dip direction) pillars on dip side
83 pillar = 11 8
Que: Calculate size of panel producing 600 TPD of coal,
If Depth of cover – 130m
Seam thickness – 4.5m
Incubation period – 12 months
Assume your own conditions if required.
Ans:
Assuming size of gallery = 4.5m
Hence size of pillar = 25m 25m [acc to CMR-99]

1. Production = 600 TPD

2. Number of working days = 25 (on average)

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3. Coal production for 12 months = 25days 600 TPD 12 month

= 180000 tonnes
4. Percentage recovery = 75%
5. Coal required in the panel =
= 240000 tonnes
6. Size of gallery = 4.5m 3m
7. Size of pillar = 25m [acc to CMR-99]
8. Coal in pillar = w b h specific gravity
= (25-4.5) (25-4.5) 3m 1.4
=1765.05
=1800 tonne (approx)
9. Roof coal over pillar = 25 1.4
= 1312 Te
= 1400 Te
10. Total coal = 1800+1400
= 3200 Te
11. No. of pillar =
=75 pillars (approx)
12. Size of panel = pillars on strike side(1.2 to 1.5 times the dip direction) pillars on dip side
75pillar = 11 7

Que: Describe a development of 6m thick seam to produce 700 TPD of coal, of geological setting of seam
is as follows.
Depth of cover – 130m
Seam thickness – 6 m
Gradient - 1 in 10
Gassiness – degree – 1
Roof – good
Floor – hard
Explain the development with proper layout, man power required and expected OMS, of LHD is
used.
Assume your own data of required
Ans:
1. Given conditions
Depth of cover – 130m
Seam thickness -6m
Gradient – 1 in 10
Gassiness- degree-I
Roof condition – good
Floor conditions – hard
700TPD production
LHD operating in mine
Assuming 3 shifts per day
Production per shift = 700/3
= 233.33
= 234 tonnes
2. Gallery size = 4.5m 3m
3. Size of pillar = 25m 25m
4. Size of panel

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Production per day = 700TPD

No of working days = 25days
Assuming incubation period = 10 months
Percentage recovery = 75%
5. Total coal extracted = 25 10 700
= 175000te
6. Coal required in panel =
= 233333.33te
=233333 te
7. Coal in pillar = l b h specific gravity
= (25-4.5) (25-4.5) 3m 1.4
=2731.05te
=2730te
8. Coal in roof = 25
= 1600
9. Total coal = 1800+1600
= 3400 Te
10. No. of pillars = 233333/3400
= 68.62
= 70 pillar (approx)
11. Size of panel = pillars on strike side(1.2 to 1.5 times the dip direction) pillars on dip side
70 =10 7
12. Selection of Horizon = Case-2
Seam shall develop along the floor so that 3m comes in pillar and 3m in floor which can be extracted
later while depillaring (4.8m)

13. Production:
Considering pull i.e., advance per blast= 1m
Production per blast = 4.5 3 1 1.4
= 18.9te
= 19 Te (but on an avg 15 Te is always considered)
No. of blast per shift = 234/15
=15.6
= 16
Assuming 3 rounds of blasting is carried out on 4 faces and single round of blasting is carried out in
remaining faces = 16 rounds
Minimum no of faces required = (4 3) + (4 1)
= 12+4
= 16 rounds
No of faces required = 8faces
Assuming 3-4 stand by faces=4
No of faces required =8+4 =12
14. No. of headings required

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No of faces =2n-1
12 =2n-1
n =7
15. Method of working:-
i. Panel will be developed in 7 headings in true dip direction and gallery 4.5 3m
ii. Blasting will be carried out by blasting off the solid method
iii. After fume clearance face will be inspected and will be dressed for removal for any huge
hanging coal
iv. Face will be supported by roof bolt
v. Blasted coal be removed by LHD and will discharge on to the conveyor and face is free for the
next round of blasting
16. No of LHD
Each LHD bucket capacity is 3 cubic meter assigned to take coal from 3faces hence minimum of 4
LHD are required
17. Layout of the panel

18. Manpower requirement:

i. Driller+ helper :
ii. Blasting short firer+helper :
iii. Dresser :
iv. Support gang :
v. LHD operator + cableman :
vi. Loader :
vii. Electrician + helper :
viii. Pump operator :
ix. Conveyor operator :
x. General majdoor :
xi. Mining sardar :
xii. Overman :
19. OMS:
OMS=
=

Practically OMS for LHD=2.8-3

Practically OMS for SDL =2.4-2.6

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UNDERGROUND
COAL MINING

UNIT-2
DEPILLARING

BY
ROSHAN GHATE
RAJAT MALEKAR

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SYLLABUS
Depillaring:
Preparatory arrangements for depillaring
Sequence and manner of extraction of pillars
Mechanized pillar extraction
Setting and withdrawal of supports
Air blast
Partial extraction
Depillaring with continuous miner

QUESTIONS FROM 2015-2018

YEAR QUE. NO. QUESTIONS MARKS
BIT NO.
S-15 3 Describe : 5+3+8=16M
i. Stooking method of depillaring.
ii. Partial extraction.
iii. Requirement of SSR.
4.A Define line of extraction explain various types of line of extraction. 6M
4.B Frame a SSR for a depillaring pond with LHD. 10M
W-15 3.A What is depillaring? Enlist methods of Depillaring and explain with 8M
proper sketch one method of depillaring.
3.B Define and explain various lines of extraction 6M
3.C Explain partial extraction 2M
4.A Enlist preparatory arrangements to be made before depillaring 7M
4.B Frame systematic support rules for a Depillaring panel where SDL is 9M
used as loading m/c
S-16 3.A Explain stooking method of Depillaring. 4M
3.B Enlist various preparatory arrangements to be made before depillaring 4M
3.C Frame systematic support rule, if LHD is used for depillaring 8M
4.A Explain slicing method of depillaring. 4M
4.B Explain various uses of extraction. 4M
4.C Frame systematic support rule, if SDL is used for depillaring 8M
W-16 3.A Explain Stooking method of depillaring 4M
3.B Frame a systematic support rule when SDL is used in depillaring panel. 8M
3.C What U/G arrangements are to be made before depillaring 4M
4.A With proper sketch, explain method of depillaring with continuous 8M
miner
4.B Explain the following. 8M
i. Partial extraction.
ii. Air blast.
iii. Line of extraction.
iv. Why whole panel of depillaring is not supported
S-17 3.A Explain slicing method of depillaring. 8M
3.B Enlist various preparatory arrangements to be done before depillaring. 8M
4.A Explain various lines of extraction. 8M
4.B Explain Stooking method of depillaring 8M
W-17 3.A Frame a 'Systematic Support Rule' for a depillaring panel of SDL is 10M
used.
3.B Whole depillaring panel is not supported at a time why? 6M

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4.A Describe method of Depillaring with continuous miner. 8M

4.B Enlist various preparatory arrangements to be made before depillaring. 8M
S-18 3.A Frame a SSR for depillaring panel where SDL is used as loading m/c. 10M
3.B What is air blast? Discuss various causes of air blast & it preventive 6M
measures.
4.A Enlist preparatory arrangement to be made before depillaring. 6M
4.B Describe slicing method of Depillaring. 5M
4.C Explain depillaring with continuous miner. 5M
W-18 3.A What is depillaring. Explain slicing method of depillaring. 6M
3.B Frame a systematic support rule for a depillaring panel where SDL is to 10M
be used as loading m/c.
4.A Sketch and label various lines of extraction 6M
4.B Enlist preparatory arrangements made before depillaring 5M
4.C Explain method of depillaring with continuous miner. 5M

Que. Frame systematic support rules for depillaring panel where SDL is used as loading m/c
Ans-
Systematic support rule (SSR):-

SSR (under CMR: 108) early it is STR (systematic timber rule).

Requirement:
1. It takes the load
2. Prevent entry of any person into the goaf.
SSR for SDL:
1. This SSR is applicable to panel A in seam ‘B’ in mine D of Maharashtra area, where coal is loaded
by SDL/LHD or other mechanization.
2. Place of supporting
a. Goaf edge
b. Original and split gallery
c. Supporting of junction
d. Supporting of actual area under extraction.

a. Goaf edge:
It takes the load and all the goaf edge will be supported by 3 rows of chocks at interval not
exceeding 0.8m
b. Supporting of original and split gallery:
All the original and split gallery up to 2 pillars ahead of actual pillar under extraction or 3m
which ever greater shall be supported by crossbar at interval not exceeding 1-1.2m.
c. Supporting of junction:

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All the junction upto 2 pillar ahead of actual pillar under extraction or 30m whichever is
greater shall be supported by means of 4 chocks at each corner and this is in addition to normal
gallery support.
d. Supporting of actual area under extraction:
Rib side of slice shall be supported by chock at interval not exceeding 2.4m and in between
prop whereas in solid side of slice shall be supported by prop at interval half of (2.4) and
cross bar will be erected.

1. Quantity and quality of support

a. We have already defined in gallery cross bar support
b. Timber: prop
c. All the slipper to be used in case of chock
d. Length should not less than (1.2m)
e. Cross section area should not less than 100cm2
f. Bolt: there only 2 opposite diameters of bolt.
2. Method of support:
a. No prop shall be erected on lose ground
b. All the chocks exceeding 3m in height shall be erected with corner props
c. All the props shall be set with lead and wedges
d. Cross bar shall be erected over wooden prop at 2 extreme ends
e. Slot and wedge bolt, cement grout bolt, full column raisen bolt.
f. All shorter props shall be replaced
g. At the tip in case of roof heighting and additional cross bar shall be erected
h. In slip or fault plane cross bars are erected
3. Additional support shall be erected as when required.
4. Designation
5. Signature of manager

Que: Frame a SSR for a depillaring panel with LHD

Ans:
Systematic support rules for LHD:
i. This systematic support rule applicable for panel ‘A’ of seam ‘1’ in mine DRC of Chandrapur
area.
ii. Where LHD required removing the coal from face and discharge on conveyor.
Place of supporting:
a. Goaf edge
b. Original and split gallery
c. Supporting of junction
d. Supporting of actual area under extraction.

a. Goaf rigid support

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Fencing by same manner with two row of rigid steel props place at interval not less than 0.6m and
no case more than 1.2m and with the help of wire it will French off.
b. Split and gallery support
i. All the gallery and split gallery up to 2 pillars or 30m whichever is greater a head of actual
extraction shall be supported by long channel erected. With interval not more than 3m.
ii. In between 2 channels, shorter channel at interval of 3m erected 2 bolt of length shorter length.
iii. No. of bolt depends on capacity of bolt amount of load.

c. Junction support
All junctions up to 2 pillars or 30m shall be kept supported by box type structure fabricated by
welding two I-section girders erect on the 2 rigid steel prop one on dip side other set on rise side and
tighten by means lagging.
d. Slice support:
i. All the actual area under extraction shall be supported by girder erected over rigid steel prop
of distance interval not exceeding 1.2m.
ii. 1st row of support from face line shall not exceed 1.8m.
iii. All roof 19mm to 250mm and length never less than 1.8m and shall be erected with cement
or resin capsule.
e. Quality:
Width of channel= not less than 100 -120mm
Depth= 50mm, 60mm etc.
Girder= 200mm X100mm
100mm X 75mm
With wave and fencing not less than 100mm X 75mm
f. Declaration: -
Additional support as when required where coal is taken by roof heightening or floor deeping all the
shorter prop is replaced by longer props.

Que: Depillaring
Ans:
i. Extraction or reduction of pillar is called depillaring
ii. Depillaring may be complete extraction or may be partial extraction
iii. Normally complete extraction of pillar is known as depillaring
Methods of extraction of pillar:
1. Full extraction method
a. Slicing method
b. Stoking method
2. Partial extraction method
a. Splitting
1. Full extraction method

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In this we extract complete pillar either by method of slicing or by method of stoking.

a. Slicing method:
The various step involve in slicing method are as follows
i. Split the pillar into two holes by driving either central level split or by the driving central
dip raise split gallery the split size shall not exceed the original gallery size.
ii. Width of slice is so chosen or selected that maximum area of roof exposure shall not
exceed as that given in conditions.
iii. Then each half is extracted by driving the slice in a pillar leaving a rib of solid coal not less
than 1.8m thick against each goaf.
iv. Unless the half of the pillar is extracted completely second half of the pillar will not be
attacked
v. During depillaring line of extraction shall be followed
vi. Rib shall be extracted judiciously on retreat
vii. Whole panel should be supported as per systematic support rule (SSR)framed and
approved
viii. Purpose of rib is to provide support.

b. Stooking method
The various steps involved in stooking are as follows
i. The pillar is divided into no of stooks depending upon size of the pillar by dividing central
dip raise split and the central level split
ii. In case of large rectangular pillar we can have long stook as the case may be but normally
we have 4 stook in a square pillar
iii. Stook is a small size pillar formed from solid pillar after splitting.
iv. Each stook is extracted in different manner following the line of extraction.
v. In order to protect working activity from goaf we have a rib and extract some amount of
coal from rib while retreating.

While stooking operation, the coal from stook is extracted in following manner as shown in fig
in sequence of I,II,III..etc, leaving ribs and small pillar (chowkidaar) as shown

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2. Partial extraction method

a. In this method splitting is taken as final operation. By this, small stooks are formed and are left
in insitu.
b. When it is necessary to project the surface from subsidence or any damage while working below
a built up area, below a top seam below any river or water reservoir then partial extraction is
done.
c. This can be done in two ways such as drive large number of wide galleries leaving small pillar to
be left forever i.e the working is completed in one stage or the work can done in two stages i.e.
developing large pillar and finally splitting them to from stooks to be left in insitu
d. The void space can left as it is or can be stowed solid in which case it is also termed as split and
pack method
e. Now besides the conventional method of extraction of pillar the present trend is towards the
semi-mechanized and mechanized method of extraction of pillars.

Que: Line of extraction

Ans:
The line joining centre of pillar under extraction is called line of extraction. This line decides the sequence
of extraction of pillar i.e. in what sequence the pillar should be extracted.
Type of line of extraction:
1. Straight line of extraction
2. Diagonal line of extraction
3. Step diagonal line of extraction
4. Steep diagonal line of extraction
5. V shaped line of extraction

1. Straight line of extraction

a. In this the pillars are extracted as shown in fig. it may be along dip or strike direction.

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b. This method is also known as knife edge line of extraction.

c. This method is generally adopted where seam has been developed bord and pillar and extracted
by longwall or shortwall method
d. Strike face, advancing from dip to rise (fig 1).
e. Dip rise face (fig 2). It is not commonly practiced

2. Diagonal line of extraction (fig 3)

When line of extraction of pillar is parallel to the diagonal of pillar, it is known as Diagonal line of
extraction.
This is very common method, with line of extraction making 45˚ with the pillar edge and given a
stepped goaf the line. The hatched portion of the pillar gives a strong support to the roof.

3. Step diagonal line of extraction (fig4)

When line of extraction of pillar makes angle less than 45˚ with strike or level then the line of
extraction is known as Step diagonal line of extraction. The sequence of numbering is shown in
figure.
4. Steep diagonal line of extraction (fig5)
When line of extraction makes angle more than 45˚ with strike or level then the line of extraction is
known as Steep diagonal line of extraction. The sequence of numbering is shown in figure.
5. V shaped line of extraction
In this the line of extraction are Vshaped as shown and sequence of numbering is as follows.
It is very rarely used.

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Que: Enlist preparatory arrangements to be made before depillaring.

Ans:
Preparatory arrangement before depillaring:-
For development of coal seam we should take permission from DGMS.
No pillared or no panel should be extracted without permission of DGMS.
Surface arrangement-
1. Planning of method of work (under this we propose to extract coal steam).
2. If Work is extended within 45m from the public sector, monuments etc. than we require permission
from owners and DGMS.
3. Shifting of surface structure like small transmission line, building.
4. Shifting and rehabilitation of villages.
5. Surface arrangement for transportation of coal similarly surface arrangement for stowing.
6. Diversion of small nallas, streams, or small rivers so that it will not drain towards mine.
7. If required check dams built on surface.
8. Shifting of habitats.
9. Diversion of travelling roads.
10. Preparation of emergency plant and organisation.

Underground arrangement:-Depillaring takes place 3-5 years after development.

1. Planning: planning for method of the depillaring either by stooking or slicing.
2. Checking and updating the plans is compulsory
3. Restoring of panel for transportation system, electrical system, pumping arrangement if required
ventilation system.
4. Construction of stone dust barrier if required.
5. Cleaning of coal dust, dusting operation.
6. Construction of preparatory stopping and isolation stopping.
7. Dewatering of old water logged area mainly on rise side.
8. Arrangement of fire fighting equipment (eg. extinguishers) and lighting at loading point.
9. Preparation of systematic support role and framing of support withdrawal cord.
10. Stabilization of weak pillar.
11. Additional provision of self-rescuer in mines.
12. Maintenance of escape route.
13. Laying of haulage track.

Que: Airblast
Ans:
Sudden release (explosion) of large volume of air through small opening at higher velocity is known as air
blast.
Preventive measures:
To avoid air blast we require regular caving of coal or rock mass otherwise if the roof is not caving we will
go for induced caving or sometimes stowing.
Causes:
When large volume of airflow through small opening air blast may occur

Que: With proper sketch, explain method of depillaring with continuous miner
Ans:
1. We give the details of panel
i. Size of gallery= 5.4*4.5
ii. Size of pillar = 24*24
2. Gallery is already supported with roof bolt.

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3. Weak pillar has been stabilizer, dewatering, has been done

4. All preparatory arrangement has been made conveyor or transportation
Method of work
Line of extraction: We use diagonal line of extraction
Splitting of pillar: Splitting will be limited to four pillars. Extraction up to pillar no 3 is complete extraction

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UNDERGROUND
COAL MINING

UNIT-3
LONGWALL MINING

BY
ROSHAN GHATE
RAJAT MALEKAR

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SYLLABUS
Longwall Mining:
Evolutionary development of longwall mining,
Its application,
Layouts
Development and extraction by conventional and mechanized methods,
Design of longwall workings
Face length and panel length,
Salvaging of longwall faces.

QUESTIONS FROM 2015-2018

YEAR QUE NO. QUESTIONS MARKS
BIT NO.
S-15 5.A Explain the various types of L/W system. 6M
5.B Explain following with L/W system. 10M
i. Face blasting (conventional L/w)
ii. Face supporting (conventional L/w)
iii. Face loading & transport (conventional L/w)
iv. Abutment pressure.
v. Cutting mechanism of plough
6.A Explain the factors governing the face length of a L/w face. 5M
6.B Explain matching system of mechanization of L/W 5M
6.C Assuming your own data calculate the production from a L/w face 6M
W-15 5.A Explain various types of L/W system 7M
5.B Explain various types of L/W face extraction method 5M
5.C Calculate daily production from a P/S L/W face Assuming your own 4M
conditions
6.A What is front abutment pressure? To what distance gate road of retreating 5M
L/W face should be supported and why? Explain with the help of shear
profile
6.B Describe with proper layout, details of equipment and man power 11M
required a method of mechanised power support L/W face of produce
4000 TPD coal under following geo-mining conditions.
Depth of cover - 250m
Seam thickness - 3.5m
Gradient - 1 in 10
Gassiness - degree - I
Roof - good
floor - hard
Geo Int - Nil
Geol. dist - Nil
Assume your own conditions of not given.
S-16 5.A Classify L/W mining system. 5M
5.B Explain man powered support L/W mining to produce 4000 TPD of coal 11M
under following Geo-mining condition
Seam thickness – 3.5 m
Depth of cover – 200 m
Gradient - 1 in 12
Roof - very good
Floor - hard

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degree of Gassiness – I
Geo disturbance – Nil. S
Also give proper layout, equipment detail, manpower required &
expected OMS. Assume your own conditions if required
6.A Explain – why gate road of L/W face is not supported up to full length. 3M
6.B Explain the following terms in relation to L/W mining system. 4M
i. Unilateral & bilateral cutting
ii. Supporting of convention at L/W face.
6.C Giving proper layout, describe mechanised L/W system to produce 4000 9M
TPD of coal under following Geo-mining conditions.
Seam thickness - 3.2 m
Depth of cover - 250
Gradient - 1 in 8
Roof - Competent
Floor - hard
Gassiness - degree – I
geof int. - Nil
Give details of equipment, manpower required and expected OMS.
Assume your conditions if required.
W-16 5 Explain the following wrt L/W Mining system. 16M
i. Half face method and full face method.
ii. Mechanism of coal cutting by shearer.
iii. Classify L/W system
6.A Assuming your own conditions, calculate production from a L/W face. 5M
6.B Explain method of supporting of a conventional L/W face 5M
6.C Explain factors affecting face length of a L/W face 6M
S-17 5.A Classify L/W system of mining. 6M
5.B Explain cutting mechanism of shearer 5M
5.C Explain supporting of conventional L/W face 5M
6.A Assuming your own conditions calculate production from a Mechanized 6M
L/W face
6.B Explain manner of Extraction at mechanized L/W face. 10M
W-17 5.A Explain "TIME cycle" of operations at mechanised L/W face. 8M
5.B Explain Half face method and full face method of extraction at L/W face 8M
6 Describe L/W method to produce 4000TPD of coal from 3.5m thick 16M
seam. Give proper layout, equipment detail, manpower required.
Assume your own conditions if required
S-18 5.A Classify the various types of L/w mining system. 6M
5.B 4000TPD of coal is to be produced from 3.2 thick coal seam. Describe in 10M
detail method of mining by R/S mechanized L/W system of other geo-
mining conditions are as follows.
Depth of cover – 300m.
Gradient – 1 in 10.
Gassiness – deg -1.
Roof – Competent regular caving type.
Floor – firm. Geol.
Dist - Nil.
Geol. Int. - Nil.
Also give properly out, Details of face equipment manpower required and
Expected oms.

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Assume your own data of required.

6. Explain the following wrt L/w. 16M
a) Unidirectional cutting & Bidirectional cutting.
b) Half face method & full face method.
c) Abutment pressure.
d) Mechanics of cutting by shearer.
W-18 5.A Classify L/W mining system. 6M
5.B Describe mechanized L/W mining method to produce 5000 TPD of coal 10M
under following geomining conditions
Seam thickness - 3.2 m.
Depth of Cover - 240 m.
Gradient - 1 m 15
Roof - Good competent and regular caving type.
Floor - Form
Gassiness - Dig- I
Give details of equipment required for production and man power
required.
6.A Explain method of L/W face extraction 8M
6.B Explain the supporting of conventional L/W face 8M

Que: Classification of longwall mining system

Ans:
1. Classification based on number of entries
a. Single entry system
b. Multiple entry system
2. Classification based on mechanization
a. Conventional longwall system or semi-mechanised
b. Mechanized longwall system
i. Full face extraction method
ii. Half face extraction method
c. utomated face or remotely operated longwall
3. Classification based on direction of advance of face
a. Advancing longwall system
b. Retreating longwall system
c. Jet pattern
d. Advancing, Retreating
4. Classification based on no. of units of longwall
a. Double unit longwall system
b. Single unit longwall system

Que: Explain the various types of L/W system.

Ans:
Types of longwall mining
1. Longwall advancing
2. Longwall retreating
3. Combine system

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1. Longwall advancing
In longwall advancing method we drive gate roads upto the seam distance and then we joint it to
form long wall face and the extracted coal from face in advancing manner and also advance gate
road simultaneously upto the boundary of panel

2. Longwall retreating
In longwall retreating method first we drive gateroads upto boundary of panel then connect these
two gate roads and then extract coal in retreating manner leaving a safety pillar across main gate

3. Combine system
In this method one panel is developed in advancing manner and the next panel is started leaving a
coal pillar in retreating manner the two panels are generally worked in alternate manner i.e. one in
advancing and one in retreating manner in order to have easy shifting of equipment hence it is
known as combined system. This method from Z like structure and hence known as Z pattern
longwall mining

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Que: Classification based on number of entries

Ans:
1. Single entry system
i. When the entry to longwall panel through one pair of gate roads then the system is known as
single entry system
ii. In case of single entry system one is main gate and one is tail gate

2. Multiple entry system

i. When the entry to longwall panel through one pair of gate roads or each side then, the entry
system is known as multiple entry system.
ii. It is also known as chain pillar system because chains of pillar are formed by joining two gate
roads. In chain pillar size of pillar depends upon depth of cover
iii. In case of multiple entry system, there are separate main and tail gate. i.e., 2 main and 2 tail gate
or 2 main and 1 tail gate.

Que: Double unit longwall face

Ans:
When two units of long wall face have a common gate road knows as double unit longwall It is
generally adopted where stowing is carried out. In one longwall face coal is extracted and other is
stowed the alternate operation will be carried out

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Que: Conventional long wall system: (semi-mechanised)

Ans:
i. It is a semi-mechanized longwall system where the coal winning operation is carried out by drilling
and blasting. Blasting may be either solid or pre-cut blasting. pre-cut blasting is carried out by the
undercut or middle cut.
ii. Two rows of holes are drilled. In the upper level and the lower level. Selection operation is carried
out at the face. The face is blasted and some blasted coal is automatically loaded to the face
conveyor and remaining coal is shovelled on the face conveyor manually
iii. The supporting of the face is done by individual steel prop, hydraulic prop and friction prop. Due to
problem in handling the friction prop. We prefer hydraulic prop with link bar

Automated face role:

1. This is fully mechanised system
2. This includes stage loader, shearer, feeder breaker. Face conveyor gate roads are automatically
operated with the help of remote control system.
3. When this concept was introduced then problem was, deviation control of shearer and health
monitoring of all machine

Que: Suitable condition for longwall working

Ans:
Longwall method of working is suitable under following condition:
1. Thin seam (as thin as 0.7m)
2. Seam with dirt bands
3. Contiguous seam if solid packed faces are laid out causing little disturbance.
4. Gassy seams which required meticulous planning of ventilation seam at depth greater than 500 meter
when bord and pillars
5. System may difficult to adopt due to excessive pressure on pillar.
6. Seams which are to be designed for / mechanized for large planned outputs.
7. Seam with weak friable roof which may cave in goaf

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Que: Advantages and disadvantages of long wall mining system

Ans:
Advantages of long wall mining system
1. Capable of giving the maximum yield per hectare of coal seam area.
2. It is a simple concentration of work areas, which permits good supervision
3. All the seam section is extracted in one operation enabling the maximum extraction percentage.
4. Ventilation of working is easier with simple and direct air routes.
5. Dirt bands in seams can find useful purpose in packing of goaf.
6. Floor liable to creep can be better controlled in this system as there are only fewer road ways to be
cared for.
Disadvantages of longwall mining system:
1. In longwall advancing roadways are to be maintained in worked oulareas and until substantial
recurring maintenance cost. Sometime there is convergence of roof in the roadways which are
required to stand for long.
2. In the case of longwall advancing with caving large expand of goaf left behind constitutes Avast
reservoir of firedamp a potential source of danger
3. In case of longwall advancing with strip packing if roadway packs are not well maintained against
leakage ventilation current way short circuit through goaf which is both wasteful and dangerous

Que: Mechanised long wall system

Ans:
1. It consists of a long wall face coal is won by either shearer or plough which reins on the coal face, cuts
the coal and loads the cut coal on face conveyor. Face conveyor installed on long wall face is arm owed
one hence the name is armored face chain conveyor. (AFC)
2. AFC installed at face is in connected with stage loaders which are installed at gate roads and kept
over-lapped AFC discharges the coal on stage loaders on the stage loaders to belt conveyor .And belt
conveyor carries the coal to surface.
3. Stage loader and AFC are always chain conveyor for better space part management.
4. Mechanization is always done with caving and never done with stowing as conveyor are not able to
move on sand or lose ground.

Working with plough: -

The coal plough is employed on a non-cyclic long wall face with a prop-free front.
1. A coal plough is a machine which is mounted on an armored chain conveyor and cuts a slice of
coal of 100mm to 200mm from the entire working height of the scam during its travel along the
face. The cut coal is loaded on a conveyor by a ramp which is a built in the part of the plough and
which follows the cutting teeth.
2. Separate arrangement for loading is there and is not necessary.
3. Plough is suitable only for soft coal.

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Que: Explain with respect to longwall mining system

Ans:
Working with shearer:
1. The shearer is employed in a cyclic long wall face with powered supports.
2. Shearer is mounted on arm owed face chain conveyor and cuts the coal with the help of rotating
drum on which picks are mounted.
3. The cut coal falls on chain conveyor and then transported.
4. With the help of shearer the coal is extracted by two methods.
i. Full face extraction method.
ii. Half face extraction method.
i. Full face extraction method: -
a. Cutting is started from one end of the face either at top gate or bottom gate and face is cut right
from one gate to another gate in one goaf till end

b. In unidirectional cutting , cutting is in one direction either in top to bottom or bottom to top. In
other direction machine moves but it won’t cut.
c. In bidirectional cutting, machine moves in both the direction from top to bottom gate and again
from bottom to top gate.
d. For every cycle of cutting either in unidirectional or bidirectional we require drivage of stable.
ii. Half face extraction method: -
a. In half face extraction method we sump the shearer at some point at centre of face in between
top gate and bottom roads.
b. The shearer cuts the coal from point A to either of the (bottom) gate. From (bottom) gate it will
fleet back, without cutting to point A. and at some time conveyor and powered supports are
shifted towards the face behind shearer.
c. Then shearer move toward to top gate from point A and cuts the coal from point A to top gate
and the shearer is then again fleeted back to point A and conveyor and powered supports are
shifted towards face and completes one cycle of cutting and ready for next cycle.
d. And next cycle is repeated at the shearer drum is automatically slumped in face because of
position of conveyor.
Cycle time:
1. Slumping of shearer at point A - t1
2. Cutting movement of shearer to bottom gate – t2
3. Checking of shearer at bottom gate – t5
4. Fleeting back of shearer to point A – t3
5. Cutting movement of shearer to top gate – t4
6. Checking of shearer at top gate – t6
7. Fleeting back of shearer to A from top point – t7

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i.e. total cycle time=t1 + t2 + t3 + t4 + t5 + t6 + t7

- Average cutting time is about 3 times of fleeting time.
- Average cycle time is about 120 to 160 minutes.
- Cutting speed is 1/3 rd of fleeting speed.

Que: Definition
Ans:
1. Unilateral/unidirectional cutting:
When cutting operation of shearer is carried only in one direction and in other direction only fleeting is
carried out then the cutting is known as unidirectional cutting.

2. Bi-lateral/bidirectional cutting
When shearer is cutting in both directions the cutting is known as bidirectional cutting

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Que: Supporting of conventional longwall face

Ans:
1. Sectional blasting is done
2. One by one section is blasted
3. Loading: manually and discharge on medium duty chain conveyor
4. Supporting: individual props and chocks
5. Normally friction and hydraulic props
Pattern of support:
1. Straight line method of supporting
2. V-pattern support

Nowadays it is not in practice. The support is formed V-type structure while extracting

Que: Matching system of mechanization of longwall

Ans:
Method Coal wining Face support Face loading Panel Face
transport length
Convention Drilling and Individual props, Manually on Belt 100-160m
al longwall blasting or cross bar, the face conveyor
solid blasting frictional props, or conveyors
hydraulic props
Mechanized Machine cut m/c itself powered Face conveyor Belt 100-160m
longwall by either support conveyor
1. Plough
2. Shearer
Automated Operation is m/c itself powered Face conveyor Belt 100-160m
longwall fully remote support or chain conveyor
controlled conveyor

Que: Factors governing the length of long wall faces

Ans:
The optimum length of long wall face whether it is advancing or recreating depends upon the following
considerations:
1. Desirable Output: -
Where the operations at long wall face follows the rigid cycle of operations, the coal output is
available only in one shift out of 3 shifts in a day. So for continuous flow of coal it is essential to
have at least 3 or more longwall faces. This decides the output to be achieved per face which
depends upon the working section and seam length of face and its advance per day.
2. Capacity of coal cutting and loading machine:
Length of face also depends on length and face conveyors and capacity of gate conveyors to
transport coal.

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3. Ventilation at face:
The methane gas emission within such limits that CH4 and CO2 in return air should not exceed
1.25% and 0.5% respectively according to coal mine regulation. The quantity of air therefore relates
to emission of gases which in term relates to length of face.
4. Capital available for face mechanization: -
With increase in face length there will be increase in face mechanization and supporting cost which
in term increases capital cost.
5. Geological disturbances: -
If the area is not proved for geological disturbance small length faces are desirable.
6. Rate of stowing: -
The unpacked go of should not lag much behind the faces. The coal output and face advance is
therefore linked with rate of stowing.
7. Development work:
The rate of advance gate road directly influence the development work

Que: Explain following with L/W system.

1. Face blasting (conventional L/w)
2. Face supporting (conventional L/w)
3. Face loading & transport (conventional L/w)
4. Abutment pressure.
5. Cutting mechanism of plow
6. Cutting mechanism of shearer
Ans:
1. Face blasting (conventional L/w)
i. In conventional longwall mining drilling and blasting is carried out upto 70m in a single round
with pull of 1m approx.
ii. in this method solid blasting is carried out
iii. more time taken for supporting
iv. here we deploy more sectional blasting

2. Face supporting (conventional L/w)

3. Face loading & transport (conventional L/w)
i. it consists of a long wall face coal is won by either shearer or plough which reins on the coal
face, cuts the coal and loads the cut coal on face conveyor. Face conveyor installed on long
wall face is arm owed one hence the name is armored face chain conveyor. (AFC)
ii. AFC installed at face is in connected with stage loaders which are installed at gate roads and
kept over-lapped AFC discharges the coal on stage loaders on the stage loaders to belt
conveyor .And belt conveyor carries the coal to surface.
iii. Stage loader and AFC are always chain conveyor for better space part management.
iv. Mechanization is always done with caving and never done with stowing as conveyor are not
able to move on sand or lose ground.
4. Abutment pressure.
i. When longwall mining proceeds abutment pressure will be formed around the goaf edges
ii. An idealized vertical stress distribution in the coal seam around a retreating longwall as shown
in fig
iii. It is also applicable to advancing face.

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5. Cutting mechanism of plough

i. Knife shape bit are bolted on a cutting plate which is an integral part of plough itself
ii. By applying normal force, normal to plane of face bit is sump up to 4-6 inch hardly depth of 10-
15cm.
iii. And with the horizontal force which provides haulage to machine and moves parallel to face
with falling of coal
iv. Product in case of plough we have more lumps and less fines, uneven.
v. Crack product in case of plough lumps, more cracks where as in shearer uniform size of
cuttings, and small pieces and more fines.

6. Cutting mechanism of shearer

Cutting mechanism in longwall mining method by shearer
Shearer mechanism:
The shearer requires three types of forces for cutting
1. Torque:
Torque for rotation of drum.
Torque increases as the cutting depth increases.
As the cutting depth increases cutting resistance also increased.
Torque required overcoming cutting resistance
2. Horizontal force :
These horizontal forces required for horizontal movement of shearer parallel to face
3. Normal force
Perpendicular to the face to keep the shearer drum sump in the solid coal
Shearer drum is having helical shape and which is bolted with teeth, cut coal is guided through this
also directs the coal to face conveyor

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UNDERGROUND
COAL MINING

UNIT-4
THICK SEAM
MINING

BY
ROSHAN GHATE
RAJAT MALEKAR

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SYLLABUS:
Thick seam mining:
Multi-section mining,
Slicing methods,
Sublevel caving,
Integrated sublevel caving,
Blasting gallery method,
Hydraulic mining.

QUESTIONS FROM 2015-2018

YEAR QUE NO. QUESTIONS MARKS
BIT NO.
S-15 7A Explain slicing method of thick seam mining. 5M
7B Explain sublevel caving system. Also explain pre prerequisite condition 7M
fourth success.
7C Loading and transport in case of B/G method 4M
8A Explain various types of hydraulic mining system. Also explain closed 10 M
face & open face method, unilateral and bilateral cutting w.r.t.
hydraulic mining system.
8B Explain development of seam for B/G method. 6M
W-15 7A Explain Problems of Roof/Strata support in ease of inclined slicing in 4M
ascending order.
7B Explain Drilling blasting and loading in case of B/G gallery method. 8M
7C Enlist suitability of Hydraulic mining system. 4M
8A Explain the pre requisite conditions for success of integrated sub-level 8M
caving.
8B Explain the cutting mechanism of water jet w.r.t. hydraulic mining 8M
system.
S-16 7A Explain criteria for deciding a thick seam 4M
7B Explain factors affecting success of sublevel caving 4M
7C Explain cutting mechanism by water jet in hydraulic mining system. 8M
8A Explain slicing method of thick seam extraction. 6M
8B Explain suitability of hydraulic mining method. 4M
8C Explain drilling and blasting system w.r.t. Blasting Gallery method. 6M
W-16 7A Explain hydraulic mining system and classify it 8M
7B Explain integrated sub level caving with a Indian case study 8M
8A Explain jankowice method of extraction with suitable Indian case study 10 M
8B Explain cutting mechanism, when high pressure water jet is directed 6M
towards solid coal
S-17 7A Explain the criteria for defining a thick coal seam. 6M
7B Describe Integrated sub - level caving with suitable Indian Case Study 10 M
8A Explain suitability conditions for hydraulic mining system 6M
8B Explain drilling, blasting and loading system in case of B/G method 10 M
W-17 7A Explain the problems of thick seam mining. 8M
7B Explain the mechanism of coal cutting by water jet in case of hydraulic 8M
mining system.
8A Explain slicing method of Extraction in case of a thick seam. 8M
8A Explain Pre-requisite conditions for success of sublevel caving. 8M
S-18 7A Explain the criteria for deciding a thick seam. 4M

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7B Describe blasting system used in B/G method. 6M

7C Explain mechanics of cutting by water jet in case of hydraulic mining 6M
system.
8A Explain problems of thick seam mining 4M
8B Explain pre-requisite condition for success of integral caving. Suggest a 6M
practical solution to prevent mixing of rock with coal in case of
sublevel caving.
8C Explain suitability conditions of hydraulic mining system 6M
W-18 7A Explain the criteria for deciding a "thick coal seam". 6M
7B Explain blasting Gallery method for mining a 10 m thick coal seam 10 M
with case study.
8A Explain pre requisite conditions for the success of sub level caving 6M
method.
8B Explain cutting mechanism of water jet w r t hydraulic mining system. 6M
8C Enlist the problems of thick seam mining. 4M

Que: Explain criteria for deciding a thick seam

Ans:
Thick seam:
The seam which cannot be extracted in a single lift is called thick seam (thickness more than 4.8m)
Basically we have 3 criteria for deciding thick seam
1. Based on national statistical average seam
In this method of determining thick seam we found average of thickness of all seams in country and
any seam thicker than that is known as thick seam
2. Based on Productivity
Productivity increases with increase in thickness of seam but beyond a certain thickness it starts
falling. And in such cases any seam which gives the maximum productivity is called thick seam
(seam in range of 3-3.5m)
3. Maximum height of extraction in a single lift by most prevellant method
This system is followed in India, and maximum height of extraction possible is 4.8m.
For our country seams are said to be thick when its thickness is more than 4.8m
Seams:
Singrauni = 164m thick
Gopalpura area= 205m thick
In India:
60% of total coal seams are thicker than 5m
70% of total coal seams are thicker than 3m
30% are thin seams

Que: Explain the problems of thick seam mining.

Ans:
1. Percentage recovery in thick seam is very poor (less than 50%)
2. As percentage recovery is less, more coal is left behind which leads to spontaneous heating
3. various strata control problem occurs with various different method of extraction
4. While mining thick seam there are various problem in mechanization because in thick seam if multi-
lift working is carried out we cannot deploy heavy machinery.
5. Propagation of coal quality
6. Problems in ventilation
7. Safety percentage is low
8. Fluid and water problem in high gradient

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9. Heavier support required

10. There is high risk of spontaneous combustion in the goaf as considerable amount of coal is left in the
goaf
11. Strata control difficult:
Mining involves heavier supports which are difficult to transport and erect. Inspection of roof
condition also becomes difficult.
12. Working is sluggish
13. Gassy seam results methane layering
14. Magnitude of subsidence is high and subsidence control is difficult.

Que: Describe blasting system used in B/G (blasting gallery) method.

Ans:
1. In this method the whole panel is divided into no. of sub panel by driving the dip rise galleries
2. Then each sub panel is divided into two halves by driving a central dip rise galleries.
3. Then the conveyor belt is mounted in the central dip rise gallery.
4. From this central dip rise gallery, blasting galleries are driven on both sides in strike direction and
certain interval as shown in fig below

5. All the development galleries are along floor and each gallery was supported by steel prop with linkbar
6. The holes are drilled by jumbo drill up to roof in a fan cut pattern through blasting gallery.
7. The no. of holes varies from 10-35 so as to take 50% of solid coal on rise side and remaining 50% from
adjacent gallery (dip side).
8. The drilled holes are inclined at an angle so that after blasting most of coal will be thrown in the
supported gallery
9. Holes are drilled at an interval of 1.5m.
10. Blasting is done with the help of uniring GB-80 explosives and detonated by ring chord.

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11. The holes are charged with the explosive cartridge with the help of PVC.
12. The maximum explosive permitted is 2kg/hole by DGMS.
13. Before blasting, the support from the goaf is removed and total seam is blasted at a time.
14. Supporting of all galleries are done by hydraulic bars provided with rigid cross bar and junctions are
supported by steel bar erected on another steel bar supporters on hydraulic prop.
15. The line of extraction is followed at around 60˚
16. The blasted coal will be withdrawn with the help of remote controlled LHD. During withdrawl of coal
in supported area LHD with operator is used.
17. The coal withdrawn is loaded on conveyor belt by LHD
18. The coal having large size is allowed to left in the goaf and larger lumps in working area are broken by
mechanical breaker

Advantages:
1. Total indegeniously avilable equipment
2. High production
3. high productivity
4. Entire thickness of the seam can be extracted in single lift.
5. Percentage of extraction about 80%
6. Intermediate technology
7. Simple, easy, and highly flexible method.
8. Can be applied to virgin seam or developed seam.
9. Less capital investment.
10. No skilled workers required
11. Technology is not of highest with maximum safety
12. High percentage recovery

Disadvantage:
1. If roof is strong then we require induced caving
2. Not applicable in higher degree gassy mines.
3. Coal is wasted in goaf, if after blasting more coal falls in goaf.
4. Degradation of coal.

Que: Blasting gallery method

Ans:
Case study
At singrauni
1. 10 to 12m thick seam was extracted by blasting gallery method in collaboration with cdf both at
east katras chora and singrauni
2. The method involves sub panelling of large panel (1000m 120.150 metre) by driving main rise.
3. Further sub panel was divided into two parts by dividing a central dip rise gallery
4. From Central dip rise gallery which accommodates the chain conveyor for transportation.
5. blasting room or blasting gallery in level direction at boundary of panel at an interval of 11-50 m so
as to form rectangular pillars of size 9-11m 65-70m
6. 50% of coal on rise side and 50% from dip side is taken from one blasting gallery.
7. All the development galleries are along floor of the same and dimension is 4.2 -4.7 3 m square).
8. All these galleries are supported with the help of Steel roof bar erected over a 40 tonnes hydraulic
prop at two ends.
9. Junctions are supported by 5-7 rigid Steel bar set over two cross bars supported by hydraulic prop.

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Blasting:
1. 43 mm diameter holes are drilled with the help of Jumbo drills from blasting room up to roof (in
case of hard roof) or slightly below weak roof, in a fan cut pattern inclined at an angle of 30-35
degree so as to extract 50% of coal on rise side and 50% on dip side.
2. Holes are charged with special explosive uniring GB-80 and detonated by specially designed cord
called ring chord developed by ICI for blasting galleries method.
3. 50 cm long PVC space was used for proper distribution of explosive along the hole length and
blasting is carried out some of the blasted coal will be thrown under supported roof and some will in
goaf.
4. Blasted coal is excavated by using remotely operated LHD while taking coal in goaf area and LHD
with operator while taking coal under supported area due to remote facility the operator remains
under supported roof.
5. LHD will discharge coal on to chain conveyor installed in Central dip rise gallery where larger
boulders are broken by mechanical hammer.
6. Only the coal which cannot be handled by LHD are kept in goaf after extraction of coal the roof is
allowed to cave

Que: Hydraulic mining system

Ans:
1. Coal winning is done by high pressure water jet.
2. In conventional system coal was loaded at face either manually or mechanically.
3. In this there is no coal loading at face
4. Here hydraulic transportation of coal is carried out
5. Face is supported by means of cross bar.

Suitability conditions of hydraulic mining system

1. It is suitable basically for soft coal and not for hard coal
Any ploughable coal can be extracted by hydraulic mining system. As per the Russian norms coal
having protodyakonove index less than 1.5 is suitable for hydraulic mining. Now a days coal having
strength up to 200kg/cm2 is suitable with advance of technology.
2. Minimum gradient required for coal water slurry flow is 7˚ depending upon size of broken coal. If
the floor is lined with steel rubber the gradient can be reduce to 4 best suitable gradient is in the
range of 17-35%
3. The roof should be regularly caving type but competent enough to along the extraction of coal.
4. The floor should be strong enough not to form mud
5. Free from geological intrusion
6. suitable for seam having thickness of 3m to 15-17m
7. Fracture coal is more suitable

Advantages:
1. Continuous in character, low cost.
2. Simple process, less manpower requires, so high OMS.
3. System leads well to automation and remote control
4. Safer- no risk of explosion and no work person in extraction area.
5. Hydro transport reduces the volume of roadway and that of shaft- so less development cost.
6. Air-bone dust pollution significantly reduced.
7. Cost of hydro-transportation is very low.
8. Cost of fixed assets is very low.

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Disadvantages:
1. Humidity of mine increases.
2. Roof and floor may be weakened due to action of water.
3. Electricity consumptions is very high.
4. Run Of Mine has to be dewatered and dried before dispatch
5. due to working of high pressure jet of water, visibility in the working area is poor which reduces the
area of proper attack and coal may be left in the roof.
6. There is no control in roof caving as the working area is not supported.

Que: Classification of hydraulic mining system.

Ans:
T his is based on method of coal cutting
1. Blasted fragmentation.
1st type in which coal is blasted and the blasted coal fragments are hydraulically transported
Here cutting is not allowed.
2. Water jet assisted cutting.
Water jet assisted m/c cutting and hydraulic transportation of cut coal
i. Cutting m/c will cut the coal
ii. Water jet is directed on to cutting point
3. Water jet cutting
Coal winning by water jet and hydraulic transportation and production of electrical energy
4. Hydraulic cutting
High pressure water jet is directed to solid coal and coal is cut by utilizing pressure of water jet. This
we call real hydraulic mining system

Que: Explain closed face & open face method, unilateral and bilateral cutting w.r.t. hydraulic mining
system
Ans:
1. Closed face method:
When the cutting sequence is from solid coal and proceed to goaf side is called as closed face system.
2. Open face method:
When the cutting sequence starts from the goaf side and proceed to solid coal or cutting is opened to
goaf it is called as open face method.
3. Unilateral cutting:
If we take coal from any one side i.e. either dip side or rise side then the cutting is called as unilateral
cutting.
In case of unilateral cutting level interval is less.
4. Bilateral cutting:
If we take the coal from both side lateral i.e. either dip side or rise side is called as bilateral cutting.
in case of bilateral cutting we can increase level interval

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Que: Hydraulic mining

Case study
At bhopali chuck mine in BCCL
Ans:
Planning:
1. Here we extract 6-8m seam by hydraulic mining method in collaboration with mountain consultant
FRG Germany.
2. The first, second trial was made in the seam which is developed in bord and pillar panel and third
trial was made in a virgin panel.
3. The panel boundary was marked with dykes on rise side and fault on dip side.
4. Coal was poorly cleated number of cleats around 12 to 15 per metre.
5. RQD (Rock quality designation) was poor around 35% roof was regularly caving type depth of
cover 140-150 m seam thickness 6-8 m gradient 7 degree to 8 degree.
6. Seam was developed along middle horizon living 0.7 m of coal in roof and 1.2 to 2.7m coal along
floor.
7. Pillar size is (26m 20cm) and gallery size (2.19 3.5m) target was 500TPD (100te 4 mm size and
400te more than 4 mm size) rubal coal.
8. Coal breaking at 100 Jet pressure discharge rate 4m3 per minute from a nozzle of 25mm diameter.

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9. flushing is done by separate pump of 20 pressure

Method: (1st trial in developed seam)

1. All the workings which are not required for hydraulic mining are stowed and pillars were centrally
splitted with gallery having size 3 2.5m leaving 11m 26m solid coal on each side.
2. All galleries up to two pillars were supported by 20te hydraulic prop set at interval of 1.2m 1.5m
(between two props in a row 1.2m and between two rows of prop 1.5m)
3. Junctions were supported by wooden cogs and other roadways were supported by hydraulic
Girders.
4. Flooms were laid in original galleries as well as in split.
5. Two hydro monitors were installed but only one is operated at a time.
6. Since the coal was hard it was not possible for water Jet to cut the coal hence it was decided to pre-
loosen the coal with blasting and then hydro monitor will cut the coal.
Performance:
1. oversized rib was left, the jet 100 pressure could not cut even free pre-loosened coal beyond 3-5m
2. percentage production recovery was around 30-39%

Method: (II trial)

1. In 2nd phase method was modified by driving 2 level split gallery we have solid coal fender as
5 26 m2, 10 26 m2 and 5 26m2.
2. Split gallery was supported with 40 tons hydraulic pop with girders set at 1.2m 1m.
5 26m-pillars
10 26m-galleries
Performance:
1. While driving third and fourth split galleries roof fall started taking place and again support system
was modified and the interval between support was reduced to 0.8 1m2.
2. We cannot control the roof and at places girder gets twisted and bend and reabandoned the panel
with percent recovery of around 23%.

Method (III trial):

1. It was tried in a virgin panel (part) of the mine seam with a planned system of rectangular pillars
(12.5m 24-60m) are framed with a gradient of roadway in 1 in 7 which is supported by two rows
of 40 tonnes hydraulic pump sets at an interval of 1.2 m with an I section girders coal was pre-
loosen with a 5 to 6m long hole with roughly 20 kg of explosives in one round of 10 holes.
2. The same hydro-monitor extracts the coal leaving a rib of 1.2 – 1.5m creating the voids with width
roughly 13 -14m.
Performance:
Percentage recovery is in the range of 60 to 65%.
Overall recommendations:
1. Coal is hard and not suitable for hydraulic mining.
2. It can be extracted after pre-loosening with proper planning.
3. On surface we have two tanks in which coal water slurry was collected, water gets separated
naturally and it is then reused again.
4. The slurry is dried into the tank and then further transported.

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Que: Explain the cutting mechanism of water jet w.r.t. hydraulic mining system.
Ans:
1. Crushing of coal:
When high pressure water jet having a pressure more than strength of coal is directed towards coal and
at a point of attack coal will be crushed. Crushing area will increase with further cutting. A slot will be
cut and cutting starts with development of slots.
2. Hydraulic wedge action:
In this case water will enter along with planes after slot cutting by process of pulverization and when
we direct a water jet towards it will act as a continuous hammer on water entered in weak plane.
3. By fatigue:
It will takes place when strength of water jet is less than the strength of coal and by continuous
application bond strength is reduced and it will break grain by grain and coal will be cut.
4. By cavitation:
Surface of the coal is rough and corrugated, and when water jet pass over it, a low pressure zone is
developed around it and water jet will pass and coal particles separated from main block move from
high pressure to low pressure.
When all these four process work or act simultaneously out these 3 and 4 are very-very slow process.
Cutting process will starts from 1

Que: Explain slicing method of thick seam mining.

Ans:
Slicing method:
When we divide thick seam into a number of seams having medium thickness, then each medium thick
seam is known as slice. Number of slices depends upon thickness of seam. For lower most slice floor of
thick seam is floor and for upper most slice upper seam is roof
Types of slicing are
1. Inclined slicing:
When the slices are parallel to dip and strike of the seam also each slices are parallel to Each other
and parallel to Inclination of seam it is known as inclined slicing.

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2. Horizontal slicing:
When slices are taken in horizontal direction irrespective to the seam inclination is known as
horizontal slicing.
It is generally suitable for steeply inclines seams.
3. Diagonal/cross-sectional slicing:
In diagonal slicing it is neither horizontal nor inclined in direction and it is cut diagonal direction or
in cross direction to dip and strike of seam

Manner of slicing/extraction:
Ascending order:
a. When we divide a thick seam into number of slices and starts extraction of slices taking bottom
slice first and moving upward the method is known as ascending order.
b. In ascending order slicing stowing of lower slice is compulsory while working in upper slice at the
same time caving cannot be done because it may cause cracks in floor
c. It is very difficult to mechanize upper slice due to stowing of lower slice and lose ground condition
available. To facilitate the working in upper slice a solid floor required and it can be obtained by
leaving a parting of solid coal over a stowed roof and the extraction of next slice is carried out.
d. Due to shrinkage of stowing voids are created
e. There is extra load on parting
f. In this method we can extract up to 3rd slice and while extraction of 4th slice the problem becomes
so severe and it is impossible to work.
Descending order:
a. When we divide a thick seam into number of slices and starts extraction of slices taking topmost
slice first and moving downward the method is known as descending order.
b. This method of slicing is possible with caving or by stowing.
c. If we stow the upper slice then there is a Supporting problem at lower slice.
d. Solid concrete floor or coal parting will be left and then stowing is done.
e. After extraction of 2-3 slices load on 1st parting or floor goes on increase and parting is not able to
bear the load and get brake and sand flows into the working.
f. Artificial flooring was done by wooden plank or concrete slab but this is costly and requires more
time and a problem of handling.
g. In India we have worked up to 3-4 slices by this method and not more than that.

Que: Explain integral sublevel caving with Indian case study. State its advantage and problems
Ans:
In this method we extract only lower most slice and the remaining slices will be allowed to cave.
CASE STUDY
(In east katras-BCCL)
Name of seam : seam no-10
Name of mine : east kotras

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Seam thickness : 7.5m

Gassiness : Deg-I
Depth of seam : 140m
Immediate roof : 8.5m sandy shale and 4-2m medium grained sandstone.
Strength of coal : 284
Panel length : 230m
Gate road : 2.4 4.8m and 2.7 4.8m
Face length : 100m

Method:
1. Gate road was supported with 20te hydraulic prop with bar.
2. The seam was divided into 3 slices
a. 2.4m top slice
b. 2.4m thick bottom slice
c. 2.7m thick middle slice
3. The top slice was extracted by mechanized longwall retreating method with shearer and banana leg
powered support.
4. As the face advance in top slice support and conveyor was shifted
5. Roof was allowed to cave behind the support and caved coal was rested on the floor of the top
slice.
6. In this way face was retread by about 90-92m in the top slice and then workset of equipment was
shifted to bottom most slices to extract 2.4m thick coal along the bottom most slice.
7. AFC from top slice act as ARC and new AFC was installed and face was retreated in some manner
as in top slice.as the face advanced support and conveyor shifted. 2.7m slice was in middle left as
sublevel coal and allowed to cave behind the support in lower slice.
8. Banana leg was operated to stimulate the flow of coal on ARC

Performance:
1. Top slice extraction was 620te per day where as in bottom slice (2.4+2.7m)=5.1m was around 772 te
per day
2. Initially the sublevel coal did not cave easily so induced caving was resorted by blasting after
advance of face by around 10m coal started caving regularly
3. In this manner the part of the panel up to 90m was extracted by sublevel caving method.
4. The production was around 800TPD in bottom slice thus remaining part of panel was exhausted as
an integral caving method.

Suitability conditions:
1. This method depends upon hardness/ caving characteristics of coal that means coal must break in
small fragments regularly
2. Caved coal in goaf must flow to goaf conveyor
3. Coal must be separated from the roof rock.
4. Roof rock must be regularly caving type
5. Surface condition must suitable for caving, and permits caving

Advantages:
1. No false roofing is required
2. Low capital cost
3. The roof coal comes down easily due to roof pressure acting on the goaf.
4. Concentration of operation and simpler supervision achieved.
5. High production possible from a face with high OMS.

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Problems (disadvantages)
1. In gassy seams, methane emission at face increases due to increased fissuring of coal of the sublevel.
This requires good ventilation. Also gasification of the seam in advance may be done.
2. Risk of fire in the goaf is higher as some coal may be left in the goaf. Arrangement for nitrogen
flushing of the goaf should be kept. Mud flushing can also be done.
3. Sometimes the face advance is slowed down due to delay in drawing of the roof coal is not friable
and manual breaking is involved.
4. Gate road maintenance is difficult.
5. Lot of dust is generated. The problem can be reduced by water spraying and good ventilation.

Que: Explain jankowise method of extraction with suitable Indian case study.
Ans:
JANKOWISE method is nothing but an inclined slicing method in ascending order.
In this method from shaft/ incline we drive horizontal drifts at different horizons normally at an interval
of 100mt vertically up to the seam and when we reach to the seam we carry out slicing in ascending
order.
(The upper level will act as intake)

JANKOWISE
CASE STUDY (ascending order slicing)
SUDAMDI INCLINE
Seam number : 11 12
Seam thickness : 7.5
Gradient : 7 degree 43 minute
Average gradient : 35 degree
Roof : 1.2mt medium grained sand stone
Surface features : railway line, totally built up area
Geological disturbances: fault dykes are present
Gassiness : 2nd degree
Method of work : ascending order slicing (jankowise)
Floor : 3mt medium grained sand stone
Development:
1. The panel has been developed between two horizon, for example 200 400 and 300 400 along the
floor of the seam by driving laterals in the strike direction.
2. The thickness of the extraction in lower slice has been limited 3.5mt. In lower slice upper horizons
and lower horizons are connected by 2 flank rise and one Central rise at a strike interval of 100M.
3. All the development roadways, both rise and horizon Are of 3.5 3 m in dimensions are long the
floor of the seam.
4. Lower Horizon acts as an intake roadway and the travelling roadway. Whereas the upper horizon
was used as transportation of material as well as stowing range Central gate road was equipped
with conveyor.
5. Thus a double unit longwall face was formed and where the rises having a safety pillar against
lower level, 6M dip stable has driven in rise direction to have number of short faces. Face was a
quick with medium duty chain conveyor (mdcc). The seam was extracted in ascending order
incline slicing method.
Coal wining:
1. Coal is won by drilling and solid blasting conducted and short faces in stables.
2. These stables will move in strike direction while whole long wall face will move in rise direction
60% of blasted coal will automatically fall (loaded) on face conveyor (mdcc).
3. Whereas remaining 40% blasted coal is manually shovelled on face conveyor.

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4. Face conveyor transfers the coal to Central conveyor which then loads the coal into mine cars or
battery locomotive.
Supports:
1. Face was supported by 3.5 m long cross bar set over two props at interval not exceeding 2.5 m.
whereas the distance between two cross bars is 1.2. These cross bars are set in dip rise direction.
2. After extraction of 6m strip, stowing of goaf is done after shifting the conveyor whereas supports
are left in the goaf itself. After advance of the face by 20 to30m in 1 unit extraction of second unit
is started for working and then after extraction of 6 100m strip alternatively stowing and
production is maintained in two unit longwall face, it is roughly 10 to 12 days. To extract
6 100m strip employing about 22 to 25 workers (all men all job type) that is in one month
roughly two slices are taken.
3. Production per month is 6640tonnes. Face OMS is roughly 45te and advanced is around 12 to 13
m.
4. Extraction in second slice is started either after the completing extraction and stowing of lower
side about 30 to 40m. in upper slice working is carried off as the same manner as in lower slice
leaving a parting of about 0.5m above stowed massive to have solid floor. in same manner
wooden chutes were constructed for the flow of coal from upper slice face to lower conveyor
installed in Central gate road at lower slice barricade is constructed to maintain Central gate road
and conveyor installation
Note:
Extraction of third slice at 18 to 19m thick seam in Sudhamdi shaft mine was made with severe strata
control problem while two slices were extracted normally and extraction could not be completed in third
place

Que: CASE STUDY (DESCENDING ORDER SLICING)

Ans:
Name of mine : GIDI-A
Name of seam : SIRKA seam
Thickness of seam : 12 m
Gradient : 1 in 3 to 1 in 5
Depth of cover : 70 90m
Length of face : 90 m
Length of panel : 150 m
Method of work : descending order slicing with caving
Development
1. Coal seam was divided into 5 slices of 2.4 m each, cut along parallel to dip of the seam slices were
extracted in descending order taking topmost slice first and artificial roof with strips of Steel and
chicken wire nets.
2. The lower slices were work under artificial roof of Steel strips and wires nets.
3. Top three slices were extracted individually allowing the roof to cave over artificial roof whereas 4th
slice was allowed to cave and remains sandwich between two wire nets.
4. This caved coal was drawn by puncturing wire nets while working 5th slice
Extraction of First slice:
1. 40 dip rise long wall face was extracted by conventional long wall method.
2. Before extraction in first (topmost) slice on surface overburden rock was sprayed face was given cut
of depth 1.25m by a conveyor mounted longwall coal cutter at a height of 0.6m from the floor about
180 holes were drilled in the whole longwall face and about 12 to 16 holes were blasted at a time
60% of blasted call will automatically loaded on the face conveyor whereas remaining Coal was
manually shovelled on the conveyor
Supports:

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1. Face was supported by 40 tonnes friction prop with an articulated link bar.
2. The interval between two rows of props is 1.25 m and between two props in a row 65CM. the goaf
age were supported additional incline prop bolted against the base of vertical prop gate road were
supported by same type of friction prop minimum span between phase and goaf line was 3.75 m and
maximum 5m
Lying of artificial roof:
1. After shifting of conveyor Steel strips 60mm 3mm were laid parallel and perpendicular to face at
interval of 400m.
2. This work connected to haulage ropes laid in gate roads and face gallery for the purpose of locking
over this Steel strips wire nets and 2m thickness and 20 mesh were laid wire nets are available in the
form of role of 1.5 m width.
3. Each wire nets were over lappet and tied with wire to Steel strips roof were allowed to cave over
wire nets.
Extraction of second slice:
1. A gate road in second slice was driven below gate road in top slice.
2. Top gate was shifted by around 4.5 m dip side and bottom gate was shifted around 7m rise side.
3. Coal cutting operation in seconds slice were similar as in first slice whereas second slice was
supported with similar friction prop with flexible bar constructed of ropes to facilitate the ragging of
wire nets and profile of wire nets.
4. Seconds slice was extracted under the artificial roofing and no coal cutting machine was used in
second slice. Solid blasting was used
Extraction of third slice
1. Third slice was extracted in same manner as in second slice
2. 2.4m thick 4th slice was maintained as sublevel coal to be extracted with 5th slice was extracted by
longwall retreating method.
3. Sectional solid blasting was used to get the coal while faces was supported by two rows of frictional
props with bar.
4. After one cycle of blasting wire netting was connected to roof level and supports was advanced. 4th
slice available coal was allowed to cave between wire nets.
5. The cable was drawn by puncturing wire nets at interval
Performance:
1. Coal caved in patches and hence caving was induced by blasting. At a time around 15 holes were
required to blast down the coal only 30 to 40% of sublevel coal could be drawn and rest was left in
goaf
2. The rate of advance in top (1st) slice is about 1.2m per 3 days which improved 2 days per cycle.
3. Advance in lower slice has better and was about 1.25 m per 2 shifts.
4. OMS is about 3.2 to 3.5 in lower (5th) slice
5. OMS is about 2.2 to 2.4 in upper slice (1, 2, 3) slice

Que: Sublevel caving method with Indian case study

Ans:
Sublevel caving method:
In this method we divide a thick seam into number of slices and extract the alternate slices (example 1,
3, 5) etc. and the remaining slices are kept as sublevel (example 2, 4, 6) etc. and the slices are allowed to
cave in the extracted slices.
Suitability conditions
1. This method depends upon hardness / caving characteristics of coal that means coal must break in
small fragments regularly.
2. Caved coal in Goaf must flow to goaf conveyor.
3. Coal must get separated from the roof rock.
4. Roof must be regularly caving type.

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5. Surface conditions must suitable for giving and permits of caving.

Method
1. Full seam section is divided into numbers of slices of medium thickness.
2. Alternative slices are extracted by mechanised long wall method individually or simultaneously
maintaining the face in a upper slice ahead of face in lower slice living in between slice as solid core
known as sublevel coal.
3. Coal will be won by shearer whereas powered support with window will be used to support the face,
sublevel coal will be allowed to cave behind the power support.
4. A rare conveyor ( goaf conveyor) will be laid to drawn the caved coal.
5. The caved coal will be drawn by opening window to rare conveyor at intervals.
6. When coal stops flowing or Rock starts coming the opened window will be closed and another set of
window will be opened.
7. Nowadays specially designed support to suit the sub level caving or integral caving is available.
8. This specially designed support is banana leg support.
9. The purpose of Banana leg is to stimulate flow of caved coal on rare conveyor it is provided at end
of support and extend outward through window.

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UNDERGROUND
COAL MINING

UNIT-5

BY
ROSHAN GHATE
RAJAT MALEKAR

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SYLLABUS
Contiguous seam working;
Working under surface structures and water bodies
Harmonic mining
Shaft pillar extraction
Horizon mining
Special methods:
Wide stall,
Extraction with cable bolting,
Yield pillar technique etc.

QUESTIONS FROM 2015-2018

YEAR QUE NO. QUESTIONS MARKS
BIT NO.
S-15 9A Write the following wrt UCG. 10M
i. Composition of product gas.
ii. Various reactions.
iii. Inlet air
iv. Various types of linkage
9B Explain extraction of a 6m thick seam with cable bolt. 6M
10A Explain various method of extraction below surface structure. 10M
10B Explain wide stall method. 6M
W-15 9A Explain the principle of U/G coal gasification. 8M
9B Explain various method of extraction below surface structure. 8M
10A Explain wrt UCG. 8M
i. Chemical reaction in combustion zone.
ii. Various types of linkage.
10B Explain the precautions to be observed while working when vertical 8M
parting between two working is less than 9m (contiguous working).
S-16 9A Explain with a case study 'Horizon mining method'. 8M
9B Explain wide stall mining method 8M
10A Explain compensated strain method for extraction below surface 8M
structure.
10B Explain "yield pillar" method of extraction below very hard roof. 8M
W-16 9A Explain Method of extraction below surface structure with Professor 8M
Peller.
9B Explain Compensated strain method for extracting below surface 8M
structure.
10A Wide stall mining. 8M
10B Precautious to be observed in case of contiguous working. 8M
S-17 9A Explain precautions to be observed in case of contiguous working. 6M
9B Describe wide - stall method of mining. 10M
10A Explain "Horizon mining system with a suitable case study". 8M
10B Explain method of Extraction below surface structure with safety 8M
pillar.
W-17 9A Explain various concept of extraction below surface structures. 8M
9B Explain ''Yield pillar'' technique of extraction. 8M
10A What is ''Horizon mining system''? 5M
10B Explain semi-harmonic mining method. 6M
10C Enlist precautions to be observed wrt contiguous working. 5M

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S-18 9A Describe horizon mining system with a case study. 9M

9B Explain method of extraction of thick seam with cable bolt with 7M
suitable case study.
10A Explain the precautions to be observed while working in contiguous 8M
manner.
10B Explain compensated strain methods (Two) to extract seam below 8M
surface structure.
W-18 9A Explain method of extraction below surface structure with 6M
"SAFETY PILLAR"
9B Explain horizon mining method with case study 10M
10A Explain "Wide stall mining method". 10M
10B Enlist precautions to be observed while working in "Contiguous 6M
Manner".

Que: Explain various method of extraction below surface structure.

Ans:
1. Extraction of coal below the ground causes damage to surface structure due to subsidence.
2. Subsidence lowering of strata, it may reach or may not reach the surface it depend on
i. Geometry of excavation
ii. Depth of cover
iii. Height of extraction
iv. Physico-mechanical properties of rock and
v. Method of goaf treatment.
3. Subsidence on the surface may be manifested as lowering of ground (subsidence trough), cracks, pot
holing, etc.
4. This subsidence may be interpreted in terms of
i. Maximum subsidence:

Where,
a= subsidence factor (will depend on geometry of excavation (GOE), Nature of
subsidence (NOS), NOGT)
t= height of extraction
θ= inclination of seam
ii. Ground strain:
Ground strain is proportional to
Where,
S= maximum subsidence
H= depth of cover
iii. Angle of draw
iv. Angle of fracture

METHOD OF EXTRACTION WITH BELOW SURFACE STRUCTURE:

1. No subsidence:
A. Working with safety pillar:
Suppose we have an excavation, in this we leave safety pillar so that surface structure is
protected.
B. Development ang splitting:
We develop the pillar and splitt
C. Panel and pillar:

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In this method we develop the seam on panel system and we extract.

2. Reduced subsidence:
A. Goaf packing:
The goaf should be packed with stowing material in order to increase the strength of pillar, which
prevents the subsidence of roof fall.
B. Partial extraction:
3. Full subsidence:
A. Compensated strain method:
In compensated strain method two or more faces in one seam or in different seam are
stepped/staggered in such a way that anticipated tensile strain wave from leading face is
superimposed by compressional strain wave from following face so as to neutralize the effect
i. Semi harmonic mining:
a. In semi harmonic mining system faces in one seam could be arranged in such a way that
structure on the surface lie on either side of common boundary of two faces or just inside
the first panel or over the transition zone depending on travelling strain.
b. Interval between two faces is equal to distance between peak of maximum compression
and tensile strain wave.
c. Width of panel is equal to 0.45R (R=radius of critical area of influence of safe lateral
strain)
d. The interval between leading and following face should be 0.25 of critical widthy
depending on time factor and angle of break

ii. Harmonic mining:

a. Harmonic mining method was developed for simultaneous exploitation of no of seam so
that anticepted tensile strain from a upper seam is partially off set by compressional strain
due to extraction in lower seam,
b. The sequence control opf mining operation in no of seam balance the travelling strain and
final strain to make the strain free surface.
c. The position of face in multiple seam is decided by angle of fracture and zopne of
maximum tensile strain.
d. Studies have shown that favourable seam thickness and subsidence factor can make zone
free from strain.
e. A super imposed tensile and compression zone during one experiment has caused closure
of cracks and even lifting of fractured ground.

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B. Super critical excavation:

i. Central zone of super critical excavation is normally strain free than that of full subsidence.
ii. The structure can be protected against subsidence damnage by postioning it with the central
zone of subsidence trough.
iii. A super critical excavation is created by two longwall facew advancing away from each other
from a common boundary in reverse direction.
iv. The structure however should not be placed above starting line of face as this zone is likely to
be under maximum compressional strain over long period of time
v. It should be shifted on either side by 0.25% of critical excavation
vi. The tensile strain in this zone is under-developed until then because of limited advance of
each face.
vii. Super critical panel should be laid so as to bring longer axis of the structure free of lateral
strain.
viii. The shorter axis in the other handf could be positioned along travelling strain.
ix. The magnitude of travelling strain is comparatively less than final strain.
x. Shorter axis is likely to elongate less and sustain strain without much damage.

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Que: Explain wide stall mining method

Ans:
Wide stall method:
1. A method of partial extraction of thick seam under surface structure.
2. The method basically involved widening of existing gallery and leaving of adequate size of stable
coal pillar (FOS>1).
3. To reduce surface subsidence and it is effect and to get maximize % recovery.
4. It was observed that stability of coal pillar left after widening of gallery was better than stook left
after splitting and heighting of split and original gallery under abutment loading.
5. Stability of stall was determined as.
Li=
Where,
i-weaking coefficient
σu-bending strength,
t-thickness of 1mm roof
- density of rock mass

Example:
East bhuggatdih area (BCCL). It is adopted to protect the railway line on the surface.

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Name of mine – E-Bhuggatdih

Thickness – 16.5-16.8m
Depth of cover – 90-120m
Pillar- 30 X30
Gallery- 3.6m wide
Wide stall method
Gallery size 6 7 8 9 10
Solid pillar 24 23 22 21 20
%recovery 29.5 33.7 37.8 41.7 45.5
FOS 1.50 1.40 1.31 1.21 1.11
Deploying 40 person/ shift in the panel up to 6000 T of coal was produced per month atoms of 2 without
any mechanization (250 TPD)

Merits:
1. It provides main road for efficient and adoptable haulage system.
2. It is easy to work in several seams at a time.
Demerits:
1. Low percentage recovery.

Que: What is ''Horizon mining system''?

Ans:
Horizon mining:
1. It is a system of mining applicable to incline or undulating seams and also relatively flat seams.
2. Driving main roadway horizontally to the strata from the shaft of pre-arranged interval of depth.
3. At least two levels are driven of different horizons, lower level called haulage level and upper level
called ventilation or return level is used return airway and supply road.
4. Horizon mining is actually not a method of mining in the sense of uw or B+P, but is a method of
lying out the working and roadway in a coal seam.
5. The countries that have first tried horizon mining and later developed it and it is used in um mining
method.
Advantage:
1. It provide main road for efficient and adaptable haulage system.
2. It is easy to work in several seams at a time.

Underground coal classification or insitu gasification

1. The process in which we convert coal into fuel gas in place is known as insitu gasification.
2. The coal cannot be extracted economically from u/g that coal is only subjected to gasification
process or coal which is not minable such coal is allowed to gasification process.

Conditions:
1. When seam is very dip sited (e.g. 4km or more)
2. Poor quantity coal cannot be mined economically
3. The coal which is present in thin layer in u/g.
4. Geological setting or condition is not allowing extracting coal.

Basic concept of gasification method consists of following steps:

1. Approach to coal bed (access to coal bed)
2. Burning of coal (by electric heater)
3. Supply of O2 (air) to burning coal
4. Formation of linkage

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5. Collection of gas at surface

6. Purification of gas (remove of toxic gas)
7. Use of gas for domestic and industrial purpose.

Advantage:
1. We can convert the non – minable coal into gases is generate heat energy.
2. The method is totally eco-friendly, no pollution on surface.
3. Burning efficiency of gas is more than solid coal.
4. Transportation of gas is very easy through pipelines

Que: Explain the precaution to be observed while working when vertical parting between two working is
less than 9m.
Ans:
Contiguous working: -
Two working either in one seam (thick seam) or two different seams. If vertical parting between two
seams is less than 9m it is called contiguous working.

˂9 m Parting

Precautions:
1. Upper imposition of pillars and gallery i.e. pillar over pillar, gallery over gallery.
2. Parting should not less than 3m.
3. Parting shall be proved at every alternate junction by the borehole.
4. Individual plan for both working and one combined plan in which upper working super imposed
with the lower working.
5. Both the working should be controlled by one supervision / over man.
6. Working in upper section should be ahead of working in lower section at least by ½ pillar or 15m.
7. While blasting in one section person from both the face should be removed.
8. Whenever support was withdrawn the person will be withdrawal from both sections.
9. Independent ventilation.

Que: Explain the principle of U/G coal gasification

Ans:
1. UGC system comprises of two basic element
a. The underground gas generator
b. The surface planned to recieve the gas and to process it for the use in power station.
2. The process itself merely involves the passing of air or oxygen through the burning coal seam to
produce a combustible gas which is brought to the surface for use this involves a number of complex
reaction; carbonization, distillation, cracking and combustion of byproducts.
3. The process may be represented in following way
C+O2 CO2+HEAT
2H2+ O2 2H2O+HEAT
4. If hot gases remains in contact with the coal solar untouched, once all the oxygen has been used up, a
second set of reaction starts:
CO2+HEAT+C 2CO
H2O+HEAT+C CO+ H2O
5. The last reactions are endothermic making use of the sensible heat from the gas to produce a gas
capable of combustion which can be used as a fuel.

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6. The calorific value of gas will depend on the relative proportions of CO and H2. It should be around
1779.8KCal/m3.
7. But if air has been used instead of oxygen, the nitrogen content of air dilutes the product gas and at
the same time reduces the calorific value to below 889.9Kcal/m3.
8. The composition and heating value of product gas depends upon:
i. Composition of the gasification agent
ii. Coal quantity
iii. Geologic condition of sites.
9. Theoretically the heating value of gas produced by air gassification cannot exceeds 44*105 J/m3.
However, it can become 40*105 to 50*105 J/m3 due to water vapour involved in the process and
decomposition of organic mass of coal. With the increasing concentration of oxygen in the blast
heating value of product gas may amount to 63*105 J/m3.
10. In general 55 to 60% of heating value of coal is recovered, the rest of energy is lost in heating the gas
and formation and in ground water heating and evaporation.
Constituent process:
Brief description of 3 components factors are
i. Oxidation zone:
Here the coal reacts with oxygen of the gasification medium to produce CO and CO2, a
substantial amount of heat being released in the process.
ii. Reduction zone:
This process commences as soon as the oxygen of the gasifying medium has been used up. The
CO2and water vapour intrained by the gas flow are almost completely reduced to CO and H2O.
iii. Distillation zone:
Here the coal is heated by convention along the path of gas flow and conduction in the area
surrounding the high temperature zone.
The combustion and gasification zones advance into the coal fields as burning occur leaving a
void in which the unsupported roof will eventually fall. Gasification reaction could be slowed by
temperatures which are too low.
Energy potential of the deposit
There are 3 sources
Fire damp:-
This accounts for some 3% only of the total calorific value, which would be present at about 25m3/te of
coal.
Volatiles:
Progressive heating of the coal in a reducing atmosphere between 450-1000˚C will remove the volatiles
Fixed carbon:
After the volatiles have been drawn off, fixed carbon remains.
Its calorific value is in the region of 8000 kcal/kg ignoring inerts present.

Que: Write the following wrt UCG.

1. Avg composition of product gas.
2. Various reactions.
3. Inlet air
4. Various types of linkage
Ans:
1. Average composition of product gas.
Following composition shows the average composition of product gases
Product gas Average %
CO2 9-11
CO 15-19

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H2 14-17
CH4 1.5
N2 53-55

2. Various reactions.
Following are the complex reactions which involves in UCG
i. Carbonization
ii. Distillation
iii. Cracking
iv. Combustion of by product

All oxidation reactions are exothermic

C+ O2  CO2+94Kcal (heat)
2C+ O2  2CO+52Kcal (heat)
2CO+ O2  2CO2+135Kcal
H2+ O2  2H2O+115 Kcal
CH4+ O2  CO2+2H2O+212Kcal
S+ O2  SO2+70 Kcal
H2S+ O2  H2O+SO2+247Kcal
CO+H20  CO2+H2+9Kcal

All reduction reactions are endothermic

CO2+C  2CO-41 Kcal
H2O+C  CO+H2-31Kcal
2H2O+C  CO2+2H2-21Kcal
3. Inlet air
i. In general, either air (21%O2) or pure O2 (100% O2) can be fed as inlet air.
ii. The calorific value of gas depnd upon the relative proportion of CO and H2. It should be around
1779.8 Kcal/m3.
iii. But if air has been used instead of O2 , the nitrogen content of air dilutes the product gas at the
same time reduces the calorific value to below 889.9Kcal/m3.
iv. Heating values :
Normal air  4.4*106J/m3 of gas
65% of O2 enriched air  4.4*106 to 5*106J/m3 of gas
Stream+65% of O2 enriched air  6.3*106 to 6.7*106J/m3 of gas
4. Various types of linkage
i. The method of connecting outlet and inlet approaches is known as linkaging
ii. In mining method, we connect 2 boreholes, the process is known as linkaging. Four types are
possible
Compressed air linkage:
Compressed air at high pressure is passed through one borehole which works its way to the coal bed,
establishes linkage and comes out of other hole.
Electro linkage:
Electrodes are placed in tightly sealed holes 25m apart, the coal being used as a conducter
Hydro inkage:
High pressure air is replaced with water and same process is repeated
Directional drilling:
a. `In this method, require s drilling an inclined hole from the surface to the coal seam
b. When the coal seam is touched, the hole is then deflected to follow the bed of the seam and
connect with another vertical hole drilled from the surface.

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