In longwall coal exploitation, problems with the proper functioning of the powered shield support often occur. In many cases, it results from the insufficient load-bearing capacity of the ground (floor) and the inability to achieve the set or yield pressure of the shield support. The improper functioning of the shield support may also result from its construction and the lack of optimisation to work effectively on a weak mine floor. This paper presents an attempt to optimise the operating conditions of the base of two-legged shield support based on the field observations and results of the PFC3D numerical calculation. In the framework of the numerical calculations, the impact of the width of the base and the location of the hydraulic legs on the working conditions of shield support on a weak floor were analysed.

The stability of longwall mining is one of the most important and the most difficult aspects of underground coal mining. The loss of longwall stability can threaten lives, disrupt the continuity of the mining operations, and it requires significant materials and labour costs associated with replacing the damages. In fact, longwall mining stability is affected by many factors combined. Each case of longwall mining has its own unique and complex geological and mining conditions. Therefore, any case study of longwall stability requires an individual analysis. In Poland, longwall mining has been applied in underground coal mining for years. The stability of the longwall working is often examined using an empirical method. A regular longwall mining panel (F3) operation was designed and conducted at the Borynia-Zofiówka-Jastrzębie (BZJ) coal mine. During its advancement, roof failures were observed, causing a stoppage. This paper aims to identify and determine the mechanisms of these failures that occurred in the F3 longwall. A numerical model was performed using the finite difference method - code FLAC2D, representing the exact geological and mining conditions of the F3 longwall working. Major factors that influenced the stability of the F3 longwall were taken into account. Based on the obtained results from numerical analysis and the in-situ observations, the stability of the F3 longwall was discussed and evaluated. Consequently, recommended practical actions regarding roof control were put forward for continued operation in the F3 longwall panel.