Dynamics control of powered hydraulic roof supports in the underground longwall mining complex

Abstract

The study presents the dynamic analysis of the hydraulic cylinders operated in the powered roof support sections as an important part of the longwall underground mining complexes. This type of hydraulic unit is subjected to frequent shock impacts from the significant rock masses released on the top of mined caverns. Hydraulic props are equipped with safety valves with steel helical springs, which intend to reduce peak loads by the relief of internal pressure. These valves respond to shock with a time delay due to the limited velocity of the pressure wave inside the cylinder and an additional pipe of a small section, which restricts fluid flow in outer space. The new approach represented in this paper is based on mathematical modelling of the interaction of the hydraulic and mechanical parts and using additional signals to control safety valves. Detection of shock in advance (0.02-0.05 s) allows reducing pressure peaks by 30% and avoid failures. The challenges are the development of a “smart valve” with optimised control functions by the signals from additional sensors (vibration, deformation, piston position) and providing fast reaction time with a high flow rate under pressures up to 100 MPa.