Stability of workface using long-wall mining method in extremely thin and gently inclined iron mine

Long-wall mining method has its own advantages, such as small mining-cutting ratio, the simple technique of recovery and high level of mechanization, which is the optimal method used to mine gently inclined and extremely thin iron mine. How to ensure the safety of workers and equipment during mining is the key technical process. Based on elastic–plastic mechanics theory, the mechanic model of long-wall method mining gently inclined and extremely thin iron mine is established and the critical safety distance of workface is obtained. With the FLAC-2D simulation software, the rule of stress change, the deformation of workface and surrounding rock in different control-roof width are also summarized. The final results accord with the ones of theory test. We confirm the support-frame resistance of workface by analogy-statistic method. The results prove that hydraulic support-frame have the ability to provide enough pressure to assure the stability of working face within the 5-m of control-roof width.

► Long-wall mining is an optimal way to mine gently inclined & extremely thin iron mine.
► The mechanical model of plasticity is established.
► Then obtain the critical safety distance of workface.
► The deformation rules of surrounding rock are summarized with simulation software.
► Finally confirm the support-frame resistance of panel by analogy-statistic method.