Analysis of close seam interaction problems in the Appalachian coal fields

Thesis/Dissertation · Thu Jan 01 00:00:00 EST 1987

OSTI ID:6713191

Wu, W

Mining into strata disturbed by previous mining operations either above or below may sometimes result in severe strata control problems. These interaction problems, associated with most multiple-seam mining operations, are very common in the Appalachian coal region and are the subject of this dissertation. On the basis of both theoretical and empirical analyses, using statistical analysis, numerical modeling, and photoelastic modeling methods in conjunction with the analysis of numerous case studies, a comprehensive, integrated model has been constructed and represented by a computer program called MSEAM. Using this comprehensive model, possible interaction problems under certain geological and mining conditions can be first predicted based on rules determined either empirically or statistically. Then, detailed analyses using different interaction mechanisms - pillar load transfer, arching effect, upper seam subsidence, innerburden bending, and innerburden shearing - can further determine the area or degree of possible interaction in both under- and over-mining situations. Special geologic and mining factors controlling interaction are also summarized by indices for an independent interaction prediction. This integrated model has been validated by back-analysis of several case studies. Full descriptions of multivariate statistical analysis, photoelastic modeling technique, quantization of various interaction mechanisms, and development of the comprehensive model are included.

• Research Organization: Virginia Polytechnic Inst. and State Univ., Blacksburg (USA)
• OSTI ID: 6713191
• Resource Relation: Other Information: Thesis (Ph. D.)
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

01 COAL, LIGNITE, AND PEAT
APPALACHIA
COAL MINING
STRATA CONTROL
COAL SEAMS
COMPUTERIZED SIMULATION
FORECASTING
MATHEMATICAL MODELS
MULTIVARIATE ANALYSIS
PHOTOELASTICITY
S CODES
STRATA MOVEMENT
VALIDATION
COAL DEPOSITS
COMPUTER CODES
ELASTICITY
GEOLOGIC DEPOSITS
MATHEMATICS
MECHANICAL PROPERTIES
MINERAL RESOURCES
MINING
NORTH AMERICA
RESOURCES
SIMULATION
STATISTICS
TENSILE PROPERTIES
TESTING
USA
012031* - Coal
Lignite
& Peat- Underground Mining- Strata Mechanics & Control- (1987-)