energies

Article
Analysis of Overlying Strata Movement and
Behaviors in Caving and Solid Backfilling Mixed
Coal Mining
Yanli Huang 1,2 , Jixiong Zhang 1,2, *, Wei Yin 3 and Qiang Sun 1,2
1 State Key Laboratory of Coal Resources and Safe Mining, School of Mines, China University of Mining &
Technology, Xuzhou 221116, China; huangyanli6567@163.com (Y.H.); kkysun@126.com (Q.S.)
2 Key Laboratory of Deep Coal Resource Mining, Ministry of Education of China, School of Mines,
China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou 221116, China
3 Faculty of Transportation Engineering, Huaiyin Institute of Technology, Xuzhou 221116, China;
13585473630@163.com
* Correspondence: zjxiong@cumt.edu.cn; Tel.: +86-1391-2005-505

Academic Editor: Mehrdad Massoudi

Received: 27 May 2017; Accepted: 11 July 2017; Published: 21 July 2017

Abstract: Based on techniques of close upper protective coal-rock layer mining, relieved gas
extraction, and underground gangue washing-discharging-backfilling, this paper initiates the concept
of mixed fully-mechanized coal mining, which combines a solid backfilling method and a caving
method (hereinafter referred to as “backfill and caving mixed mining”). After the principle and key
techniques are introduced, a physical simulation experiment and a numerical simulation are used to
study the characteristics of the overlying strata’s fracture development, the main roof subsidence,
the stress field and its influence area in the transition area with the length ratios of the backfilling
section and the caving section, and the advancing distance of the mixed longwall face. Thus, the
lengths of the caving section and the backfilling section, the parameters of the support system in the
transition section, and the design process of the mixed longwall face are presented. In practice, the
mixed longwall face Ji15 -31010 in Ping-dingshan No. 12 Colliery proves that the designed lengths
of 120 m and 100 m for the backfilling section and the caving section, respectively, are appropriate.
The monitoring results of the hydraulic support working resistance show that the supports were
working well in general; the maximum growth height of the overlying strata fracture is 18 m; the gas
drainage efficiency is up to 80% and the average gas concentration is 0.1 g/m3 ; a large quantity of
gangue generated in the Ji14 seam is disposed underground; coal and gas are extracted simultaneously;
and significant environmental and economic benefits are realized.

Keywords: mixed coal mining; strata movement and behavior; fractures development; transition
section; backfilling section; caving section

1. Introduction
Along with the continuous output growth in recent years, China’s annual coal production now
accounts for nearly half of the world’s total [1–3]. But as mining activities become more intensive
and coal mines reach ever greater depths, many deep mines reach low permeability and high gas
content seams, which are prone to gas outburst or gas explosion hazards [4,5]. This is now a common
challenge facing more than 46% of all coal mines in China [6,7]. The conventional practice of mining in
the close-distance protective seam and pre-mining gas drainage in the protected seam is one of the
most widely used techniques to deal with such seams in China, and proves to be effective.
As one of the major green mining technologies recently promoted and applied in China,
fully-mechanized coal mining with solid backfilling [8–12], is not only effective in extracting “three

Energies 2017, 10, 1057; doi:10.3390/en10071057 www.mdpi.com/journal/energies

Energies 2017, 10, 1057 2 of 16

under” coal reserves (i.e., coal trapped under buildings, water-bodies, and railways) and controlling
ground subsidence, it is also instrumental in protecting the local environment and the disposing
of solid waste, such as gangue, fly ash, aeolian sand, loess, and construction waste [13–15]. As the
study of the backfilling method goes deeper and its application goes wider [16–19], the integrated
technique of underground gangue washing-discharging-backfilling has been applied to cut the cost
of gangue lifting and reduce the potential environmental impact caused by gangue dumping and
spontaneous combustion.
The Ji15 coal seam of Ping-dingshan No. 12 Colliery in Henan Province features high gas
content and low permeability. A 0.5 m thick of coal and 1.5 m thick of rock were mined out as
an upper protective layer. A large quantity of waste gangue was mixed in with the raw coal, and
lifting the gangue from underground is not cost-effective and can be harmful to the environment.
After considering the gangue disposal capacity of the protected layer, the gas extracting effect, and
the annual coal production capacity, backfilling and caving mixed mining technology was applied in
the protected layer. For a new technology combining conventional caving and solid backfilling in one
longwall face, there is no literature in China or abroad that is published to deal with such technology
and its problems, especially when it comes to theoretical research concerning the mining method’s
design, mine pressure behavior, the overlying strata movement, and the supporting facility’s design.
In order to study this subject, a physical simulation experiment and a numerical simulation model
were used to study the characteristics of the overlying strata’s fracture development, the main roof
subsidence, the stress field and its influence area in the transition area with the length ratios of the
backfilling section and the caving section, and the advancing distance of the mixed longwall face. Thus,
the lengths of the caving section and the backfilling section, the parameters of the support system
in the transition section, and the design process of the mixed longwall face are presented. The field
measurement data are derived from the actual mixed longwall face and verify the correctness of the
study results presented by this paper.

2. Study Area Description

As an aging mine area, the reserve at Ping-dingshan No. 12 Colliery is almost worked out.
At present, the main recoverable coal seam is the Ji15 seam. It is 800 m underground, 3.2 m thick, and a
gas rich seam. Due to its high gas content, low permeability, and low gas drainage ratio, the technical
difficulty of safe mining has begun to hinder its sustainable development. The Ji14 seam, which is
above Ji15 , is 0.5 m thick on average and some area of it is no coal seam. Between the two coal seams,
mudstone and fine sandstone are the main rocks, which is about 13 m. After studying the practice of
domestic and foreign counterparts in mining similar coal seams, a 0.5 m thick of the Ji14 coal seam and
its upper 1.5 m thick of rock were first mined out as a protective layer to relieve mine pressure and
pre-extract the gas in the Ji15 seam, then a mixed longwall face in the Ji15 seam was laid out, and finally
the gangue in the underground was separated from the protective layer and washed then backfilled
to the gob of the mixed longwall face. By this way, the coal and gas are extracted at the same time,
the underground gangue is disposed of right away, and the gob is filled. Figure 1 shows the roadway
layout of the mining district in the Ji15 and Ji14 seams.
Energies 2017, 10, 1057 3 of 16
Energies 2017, 10, 1057 3 of 16

N
Thickness Columnar Lithologic character
Legend Ji14 coalfce Intake air Backfilling area Advancing direction (m) (1:200)

Ji15 coalfce Return air Caving area

12.0 Mudstone

6.0 Sandstone

6.0 Fine Sandstone

Original Ji14-31010 intake airway
5.0 Siltstone
Ji15-31010 headentry
0.5 Ji14 Coal

Ji15-31010 working face

Ji14-31010 working face
gob-side entry retaining
6.5 Sand mudstone
Ji14-31010 intake airway
1.5 Fine Sandstone

4.5 Sand mudstone

Ji14-31010 intake airway 3.2 Ji15 Coal

0.6 Mudstone

Ji15-31010 tailentry 4.7 Fine Sandstone

4.2 Limestone

Figure
Figure 1. Roadway
1. Roadway layoutofofthe
layout themining
miningdistrict
districtin
in the
the Ji
Ji15
15 and
andJiJi1414seams.
seams.

3. Mixed Mining Technology

3. Mixed Mining Technology
Backfilling and caving mixed mining (BCMM) is a new technology which combines
Backfilling and caving mixed mining (BCMM) is a new technology which combines conventional
conventional caving and solid backfilling in one longwall face. Different from single coal mining
caving and solid backfilling in one longwall face. Different from single coal mining technology,
technology, the longwall face of a Mixed Mining Technology is divided into longwall faces for the
the longwall face of a Mixed Mining Technology is divided into longwall faces for the backfilling
backfilling section and the caving section, respectively, according to the method of roof management
section
in theand the caving
goaf, equipment, section,
andrespectively,
techniques. according to the method
In the backfilling section,ofthe
roofkey
management
equipment inincludes
the goaf,
equipment, and techniques. In the backfilling section, the key equipment includes
backfilling mining hydraulic supports and backfilling scraped conveyors; and solid materials such backfilling mining
as
hydraulic
gangue supports
and fly ash andarebackfilling scraped
used to backfill conveyors;
the gob and
area so as to solid
controlmaterials
overlying such as movement.
strata gangue and Byfly
ashcontrast,
are usedthe tocaving
backfill the gob
section usesarea
the so as to control
traditional cavingoverlying
method, wherestrata ordinary
movement. By contrast,
hydraulic supports the
caving section uses the traditional caving method, where ordinary hydraulic supports
are used in the longwall face and the roof caves naturally during mining. In this mixed longwall face, are used in the
longwall
the twoface and the
sections shareroofonecaves
set ofnaturally during
shearer and mining.
scraper In thisatmixed
conveyors longwall
the forepart, andface, the two
cooperate insections
order
share one set
to finish ofcoal
the shearer
mining andwork.
scraper conveyors at the forepart, and cooperate in order to finish the coal
mining Between
work. the backfilling and caving sections, transitional hydraulic supports are put in place to
ensure
Betweena smooth transition;and
the backfilling the caving
head entry is equipped
sections, with crushers,
transitional hydraulica supports
stage loader, and in
are put a coal
place
conveyor,
to ensure etc.; thetransition;
a smooth tail entry is theequipped withisaequipped
head entry gangue conveyor, and a gangue
with crushers, a stage stage
loader,loader,
and aetc.
coal
Figure 2 shows the longwall face layout of the Ji -31010 mixed longwall
conveyor, etc.; the tail entry is equipped with a gangue conveyor, and a gangue stage loader, etc.
15 face.
Figure 2Compared
shows thewith longwallsingleface
mining
layout technology, BCMMmixed
of the Ji15 -31010 technology
longwallis obviously
face. differentiated in
terms of goaf-roof management and relevant mining equipment,
Compared with single mining technology, BCMM technology is obviously differentiated which makes it more sophisticated
in terms
in longwall face length design, longwall face equipment selection,
of goaf-roof management and relevant mining equipment, which makes it more sophisticated in and coal mining and backfilling
techniques. The most fundamental issues of implementing this technology are equipment selection
longwall face length design, longwall face equipment selection, and coal mining and backfilling
and strata movement control based on the respective lengths of the backfilling and caving sections.
techniques. The most fundamental issues of implementing this technology are equipment selection
The lengths of the backfilling section and caving section will not only influence the overall production
and strata movement control based on the respective lengths of the backfilling and caving sections.
capacity of the mine, but also will impact the overlying strata’s fracture development and strata
The lengths of the backfilling section and caving section will not only influence the overall production
movement features. On the other hand, during the process of longwall face advances, the mining
capacity of the mine, but also will impact the overlying strata’s fracture development and strata
pressure in front of the face has an obvious difference affecting caving and backfilling mining, thus
movement
resultingfeatures. On the other
in the surrounding rock hand, during
deformation ofthe
the process of longwall
two entries. faceofadvances,
So, the study the mining
the strata behaviors
pressure in front of the face has an obvious difference affecting caving and backfilling
in a mixed mining longwall face with different length ratios for the backfilling and caving sections, mining, thus
resulting in the surrounding
and longwall face advance rock deformation
has important of the two
significance forentries.
a mine’sSo, the study of the strata behaviors
security.
in a mixed mining longwall face with different length ratios for the backfilling and caving sections,
and longwall face advance has important significance for a mine’s security.
Energies 2017, 10, 1057 4 of 16
Energies 2017, 10, 1057 4 of 16

ay ay
ay a irw ay a irw
w ke w ke
air Drilling borehole
ta air ta
ke r in ta ke e r in
nta e
r in low
pe
ri low e 0
0u 01
0 up 05
01 -3 1 0 50 -3 1
-31 Ji14-31010 working face Ji 14 -31 Ji 14
Ji 14 Ji 14

Drilling borehole
Buried pipes
Self-advancing transfer conveyor Backfilling mining belt conveyer

Overburden
Ji14-31050 working face
Gangue transportation direction
Backfilling scraper conveyor Main roof
Tailentry
Ji14-31010 open-off cut Armoured face Front top beam Immediate roof
A A
conveyor

Buried pipes Coal seam

Backfill body
Backfill

Backfilling section
Backfilling Coal cutter body
scraper conveyor
A-A
Unloading hole
Gas drainage try Overburden
en

Advancing direction
Drilling borehole y
tai
l ntr
10 de Coal
0 ea Main roof Main roof

-31 0h
01

Transition section
Immediate roof
Ji 15 -3 1 B
Self-tamping backfilling
hydraulic support B
Ji 15 Ji15 coal seam Backfill Coal seam
Ji15-31010 working face body

B-B

Caving section
Traditional Overburden
hydraulic support

Caving gangue
C C
Main roof
Main roof
Belt conveyor Immediate roof

Coal transportation direction Goaf Coal seam

Headentry

C-C

Figure 2. Layout of mixed mining longwall face.

Figure 2. Layout of mixed mining longwall face.
4. Strata Behaviors in a Mixed Mining Longwall Face
4. Strata Behaviors in a Mixed Mining Longwall Face
4.1. Length Ratio Effect Analysis
4.1. Length RatioonEffect
Based Analysis conditions of the Ji14-31010 and Ji15-31010 longwall faces in the Ping-
the geologic
dingshan No. 12 Colliery, a two-dimensional physical simulation was carried out to study the
Based on the geologic conditions of the Ji14- 31010 and Ji15- 31010 longwall faces in the
features of the overlying strata movement [20,21]. The geometry similarity of the physically similar
Ping-dingshan No. 12 Colliery, a two-dimensional physical simulation was carried out to study
simulation model is 1:100, the density similarity ratio is 1:1.67, and the time similarity ratio is 1:10.
the features
The length,of width,
the overlying
and heightstrata
of themovement
model was 2.5 [20,21].
m × 0.3The geometry
m × 1.20 similarity
m, respectively of the
(Table 1). Aphysically
0.10
similar
MPa simulation
equivalentmodel
stress isisloaded
1:100, through
the density similarity
a loading systemratio is 1:1.67,
on the top of and the time
the model; thesimilarity
bottom and ratio is
1:10.both
The sides
length, width,
of the modeland wereheight
fixed.ofInthe
themodel wasof2.5
main roof × 0.3longwall
themmixed m × 1.20 m,Ji15
face respectively
-31010, there (Table
are 1).
A 0.10
21 MPa equivalent
displacement stress ispoints
monitoring loadedwith through a loading
a distance of 12.5system on theeach
cm between toptwoof the model;
points. Theretheare
bottom
sevensides
and both stressofmonitoring
the model points,
wereamong
fixed. which
In the points ② toof
main roof ⑥thearemixed
at 1.5 cm of the transition
longwall section; there
face Ji15 -31010,
points ① and ⑦ are located in the upper-middle of mining Section 1 and 6, and
are 21 displacement monitoring points with a distance of 12.5 cm between each two points. There are are used to monitor
seventhestress
stressmonitoring
and its influence areaamong
points, at the transition section.
which points The experiment
2 to
designed six mining models
6 are at 1.5 cm of the transition section;
and testing programs: six sections are excavated, with the length ratios between the backfilling
points 1 and 7 are located in the upper-middle of mining Section 1 and 6, and are used to monitor
section and caving section being 2:1, 1.2:1, 1:1, 1/2:1, 1/3:1, and 0:1, respectively. The physical
the stress and its influence area at the transition section. The experiment designed six mining models
simulation model and monitoring lines layout are shown in Figure 3, and the physical simulation
and testing
parametersprograms:
of each six
rocksections areshown
strata are excavated, with2.the
in Table length
In the ratios between
experiment, the Vic-2Dthe backfilling
displacement section
and monitoring
caving section being 2:1, 1.2:1, 1:1, 1/2:1, 1/3:1, and 0:1, respectively. The
system and BZ2205C static resistance strain indicator (Rand technology, Qinhuangdao, physical simulation
model and China)
Hebei, monitoring linesas
were used, layout
shownare in shown
Figure 4.in Figure 3, and the physical simulation parameters of
each rock strata are shown in Table 2. In the experiment, the Vic-2D displacement monitoring system
Tableindicator
and BZ2205C static resistance strain 1. Physical (Rand
model basic parameters.
technology, Qinhuangdao, Hebei, China) were
used, as shown in Figure 4.
Item Parameter Item Parameter
Type two-dimensional Mining distance 2.18 m
Model length Table 1. Physical
2.5 m model basic parameters.
Step 55
Mining height 2.0 m/3.2 m Pace 4 cm
ModelItem
height 1.50 m
Parameter Time ratio
Item 1:7
Parameter
Coal seam 3.2 cm Upper load 0.06 MPa
Type
Geometry ratio
two-dimensional
1:100
Mining Total
distance
time
2.1827.5
m h
Model length 2.5 m Step 55
Bulk density ratio 1:1.67 Time interval 0.5 h
Mining height 2.0 m/3.2 m Pace 4 cm
Stress ratio 1:167 Filling ratio 71.88%
Model height 1.50 m Time ratio 1:7
Coal seam 3.2 cm Upper load 0.06 MPa
Geometry ratio 1:100 Total time 27.5 h
Bulk density ratio 1:1.67 Time interval 0.5 h
Stress ratio 1:167 Filling ratio 71.88%
Energies 2017, 10, 1057 5 of 16
Energies 2017,
Energies 2017, 10,
10, 1057
1057 55 of
of 16
16

Figure 3. The testing model and monitoring system: (a) physical model; (b) monitoring system.
Figure 3.

(a) Length
(a) Length ratio
ratio 2:1
2:1 (b) Length
(b) Length ratio
ratio 1.2:1
1.2:1

(c) Length
(c) Length ratio
ratio 1:1
1:1 (d) Length
(d) Length ratio
ratio 1/2:1
1/2:1

(e) Length
(e) Length ratio
ratio 1/3:1
1/3:1 (f) Length
(f) Length ratio
ratio 0:1
0:1
Figure 4.
Figure 4. Features
Features ofof overlying
overlying strata’s
strata’s fracture
fracture development.
development. (Note: Ratio
Ratio (a–f) refers
refers to
to the
the length
length
Figure 4. Features of overlying strata’s fracture development. (Note:
(Note: Ratio (a–f)
(a–f) refers to the length
ratio of
ratio of the
of the backfilling
the backfilling section
backfilling section and
section and the
and the caving
the caving section).
caving section).
section).
ratio
Energies 2017, 10, 1057 6 of 16

Table 2. Physical simulation parameters of the test model.

Energies 2017, 10, 1057 6 of 16
Actual Model Compressive Simulation
No. Lithologic Character
Thickness/m
Table 2. Physical Thickness/cm
simulation parameters Strength/MPa
of the test model. Strength/KPa
1 Fine Sandstone Actual10 Model10 32.0
Compressive 369.22
Simulation
2No. Lithologic Character
Mudstone 10
Thickness/m 10
Thickness/cm 14.0
Strength/MPa 161.53
Strength/KPa
3 Fine Grained Sandstone 8 8 32.0 369.22
1 Fine Sandstone 10 10 32.0 369.22
4 Mudstone 12 12 14.0 161.53
2 Mudstone 10 10 14.0 161.53
5 Coarse Grained Sandstone 6.0 6.0 25.0 288.45
3 Fine Grained Sandstone 8 8 32.0 369.22
6 Fine Sandstone 6.0 6.0 35.0 403.83
4 Mudstone 12 12 14.0 161.53
7 Siltstone 5.0 5.0 13.0 149.99
8 5 CoarseJiGrained Sandstone
14 Coal Seam
6.00.5 6.00.5 25.09.0 288.45
103.84
9 6 Fine Sandstone
Sandy Mudstone 6.06.5 6.06.5 35.015.0 403.83
173.07
10 7 Fine Siltstone
Sandstone 5.01.5 5.01.5 13.035.0 149.99
403.83
11 8 Ji14 Coal
Sandy Seam
Mudstone 0.54.5 0.54.5 9.014.0 103.84
161.53
12 9 Sandy Mudstone
Ji15 Coal Seam 6.53.2 6.53.2 15.09.0 173.07
103.84
1310 Fine Sandstone
Mudstone 1.50.5 1.50.5 35.016.0 403.83
184.61
1411 Sandy Mudstone
Fine Sandstone 4.54.7 4.54.7 14.032.0 161.53
369.22
12 Ji15 Coal Seam 3.2 3.2 9.0 103.84
13 Mudstone 0.5 0.5 16.0 184.61
4.1.1. Features
14 ofFine
the Sandstone
Overlying Strata’s Fracture
4.7 Development
4.7 32.0 369.22

To better simulate the actual mining process underground, in the physical simulation experiment,
4.1.1. Features of the Overlying Strata’s Fracture Development
the 2.0 m protective layer of the Ji14 seam is mined out first, and then the Ji15 seam is mined when
To better
the overlying stratasimulate
becomesthestable.
actualThe mining process full
non-contact underground,
field straininmeasurement
the physical simulation
system Vic-2D
experiment, the 2.0 m protective layer of the Ji14 seam is mined out first, and then the Ji15 seam is
was used to record the test results and analyze the data. Figure 4 above shows the overlying strata’s
mined when the overlying strata becomes stable. The non-contact full field strain measurement
fracture development at six different length ratios between the backfilling and caving sections of the
system Vic-2D was used to record the test results and analyze the data. Figure 4 above shows the
mixed longwall face.
overlying strata’s fracture development at six different length ratios between the backfilling and
Figure 4 shows:of(1)
caving sections theinmixed
the caving section,
longwall face. the overlying strata’s movement takes the form of “caving
zone, fractured zone, and bending zone”,
Figure 4 shows: (1) in the caving section, and the thegrowth of the
overlying fracture
strata’s arch and
movement takesbed
theseparation
form of is
obvious. By comparison, in the backfilling section, the overlying strata’s movement
“caving zone, fractured zone, and bending zone”, and the growth of the fracture arch and bed takes the form
of “fractured
separationzone and bending
is obvious. zone”, ofinwhich
By comparison, the bending
the backfilling deflection
section, is the main
the overlying strata
strata’s movement
movement
form,takes the form
no caving of “fractured
zone is detected,zone
andand bending
fracture zone”, of which
development the bending
is relatively deflection
weak; (2) theisstrata
the main
over the
strata area
transition movement
of theform, no caving
backfilling zone and
section is detected,
cavingand fracture
section hasdevelopment is relatively
suffered serious damage, weak;
and(2)
shows
the strata over the transition area of the backfilling section and caving section has
an apparent step-shaped subsidence; (3) the strata’s fracture distribution in the mixed longwall face suffered serious
damage, and shows an apparent step-shaped subsidence; (3) the strata’s fracture distribution in the
differs significantly along with the change of length ratio. When the length ratios are 2:1, 1.2:1, 1:1,
mixed longwall face differs significantly along with the change of length ratio. When the length ratios
1/2:1, 1/3:1, and 0:1, the maximum growth height of the overlying fracture is 7.0, 21.6, 23.8, 38.4, 56,
are 2:1, 1.2:1, 1:1, 1/2:1, 1/3:1, and 0:1, the maximum growth height of the overlying fracture is 7.0,
and 73 m,23.8,
21.6, respectively.
38.4, 56, andThe
73 m,changing curve
respectively. Theofchanging
maximum curveheight of the overlying
of maximum height of thestrata’s fracture
overlying
development is shown in Figure 5.
strata’s fracture development is shown in Figure 5.

80

70
Fracture development height (m)

60

50

40 -1.228x
y=76.316e
2
30 R =0.9296

20
O(1.44,13)
10

0
0.0 0.5 1.0 1.5 2.0
Length ratio of backfilling section and caving section

Figure 5. Change curve of maximum height of the overlying strata’s fracture development.
Figure 5. Change curve of maximum height of the overlying strata’s fracture development.
Energies 2017, 10, 1057 7 of 16

Energies 2017, 10, 1057 7 of 16

The above curve shows: (1) the relation between the maximum growth height of the overlying
strata’sThe above and
fracture curvethe
shows: (1) ratio
length the relation
can bebetween the maximum
expressed growth height
with the formula of −the
y = 76e overlying
1.228x , and the
strata’s fracture and the length ratio can be expressed with the formula y = 76e−1.228x, and the
correlation coefficient is 0.9296; (2) when the length ratio is smaller than 1.44, the growth height
correlation coefficient is 0.9296; (2) when the length ratio is smaller than 1.44, the growth height of
of overlying strata’s fracture is 13 m and is able to reach the upper protective Ji14 layer (12.5 m);
overlying strata’s fracture is 13 m and is able to reach the upper protective Ji14 layer (12.5 m); (3) the
(3) the length ratios of the backfilling section and caving section have a significant impact on the
length ratios of the backfilling section and caving section have a significant impact on the growth
growth height of the fracture in the overlying strata, which further influences the gas extraction
height of the fracture in the overlying strata, which further influences the gas extraction effect in the
effect in the protected seam. So, according to this physical simulation experiment, the maximum
protected seam. So, according to this physical simulation experiment, the maximum growth height
growth
changeheight
curvechange curve ofstrata’s
of the overlying the overlying
fracture strata’s fracture
at different lengthatratios
different length ratios
will provide crucialwill provide
guidance
crucial
for the design of the mixed longwall face length and the effect of gas discharge in practical in
guidance for the design of the mixed longwall face length and the effect of gas discharge
practical engineering.
engineering.

4.1.2. Main
4.1.2. Roof
Main RoofSubsidence
Subsidence
Using
Usingthe non-contact
the non-contactfull
fullfield
fieldstrain
strain measurement systemVic-2D,
measurement system Vic-2D,the
thecorrelation
correlation between
between thethe
length ratios and the main roof subsidence in the six simulation models are shown in Figure
length ratios and the main roof subsidence in the six simulation models are shown in Figure 6. 6.

Model length/cm
0 25 50 75 100 125 150 175 200 225 250
0.0
Main roof subsidence/cm

0.7
Backfill ratio(73.44%) Transition section position
1.4
2.1
2.8
3.5
Length ratio
4.2
0:1 1/3:1 1/2:1 1:1 1.2:1 2:1
4.9
Figure 6. Main roof subsidence curve.
Figure 6. Main roof subsidence curve.

Figure 6 shows that: (1) when the length ratio is between 2:1 to 0:1, the maximum main roof
Figure 6 values
subsidence shows ofthat: (1) when the
the backfilling length
section andratio is between
caving section are 2:1around
to 0:1,0.85
the mmaximum
and 3.05 main
m,
roof subsidence
respectively, values
i.e., of the
the caving backfilling
section section
is 3.6 times as bigand caving
as the sectionsection,
backfilling are around
which 0.85
shows mthat
andthe3.05
m,subsidence
respectively, i.e., has
value the caving
little to section
do withis the
3.6 length
times as big as(2)the
ratios; asbackfilling
the length section, which
ratio drops, theshows
area ofthat
thecontinuous
subsidence subsidence of the main roof in the caving section increases, that in the backfilling section of
value has little to do with the length ratios; (2) as the length ratio drops, the area
continuous
decreases,subsidence of the main
and the subsidence roof
on the in side
right the caving section
of the main roofincreases,
of the twothat in theisbackfilling
sections higher thansection
that
on the left;
decreases, and(3)thethesubsidence
main roof subsidence
on the rightinsidethe transition
of the main section
roof ofchanges
the twobetween 7 to
sections is 15 m. The
higher than
results
that of left;
on the physically
(3) thesimilar simulation
main roof of theinoverlying
subsidence strata’ssection
the transition subsidence features
changes can provide
between 7 to 15 m.
Thefurther guidance
results to the length
of physically similardesign of a mixed
simulation of thelongwall
overlyingface and tosubsidence
strata’s equipment selection.
features can provide
further guidance to the length design of a mixed longwall face and to equipment selection.
4.1.3. Stress and Influence Area in Transition Section
4.1.3. Stress
Stressand Influence
monitoring Area in Transition
instruments were usedSection
to monitor the stress in the transition section when the
length ratios
Stress change, and
monitoring the monitoring
instruments results
were used to are shown
monitor in stress
the Table in
3. the transition section when the
length ratios change, and the monitoring results are shown in Table 3.
Table 3. Stress distribution at different length ratios of the backfilling section and caving section.
Table Stress
Length3.ratio of distribution
Lengthatofdifferent length
Length ofratiosPeak
of theStress
backfilling
of section and caving section.
Stress Stress
Backfilling Section Backfilling Caving Transition Concentration Influence
Length
and Cavingratio of
Section Length(m)
Section of Length
Section (m)of Peak Stress
Section (MPa)of Stress
Factor RangeStress
(m)
Backfilling
2:1Section Backfilling
145 Caving
75 Transition
27.4 Concentration
1.37 Influence
6.86
and Caving Section Section (m) Section (m) Section (MPa) Factor Range (m)
1.2:1 120 100 31.6 1.58 7.14
2:1
1:1 145
110 11075 27.4
32.6 1.37
1.66 6.86
9.25
1.2:1 120 100 31.6 1.58 7.14
1/2:1 75 145 32.4 1.62 8.53
1:1 110 110 32.6 1.66 9.25
1/3:1
1/2:1 55
75 165
145 28.4
32.4 1.42
1.62 4.57
8.53
1/3:1 55 165 28.4 1.42 4.57
Energies 2017, 10, 1057 8 of 16
Energies 2017, 10, 1057 8 of 16

The
Thestress
stresschange
changecurve
curveand
andstress
stressinfluence
influencerange
range curves
curves are
are shown
shown in
in Figure
Figure 7.
7.

(a) 36 (b) 12

34 10
Vertical stress (MPa)

Stress influence distance (m)

32
8
30
6
28
4
26

24 2

22 0
0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1.0 1.2 1.4 1.6 1.8 2.0 2.2 0.0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1.0 1.2 1.4 1.6 1.8 2.0 2.2
Length ratio of backfilling section and caving section Length ratio of backfilling section and caving section

Figure 7. Stress and its influence area in transition section: (a) Vertical stress (b) stress influence area.
Figure 7. Stress and its influence area in transition section: (a) Vertical stress (b) stress influence area.

As per Table 2 and Figure 7: (1) when the length ratio varies between 2:1 and 1/3:1, the peak
As
stress in pertheTable 2 andsection
transition Figure falls7: (1)towhen
between the 27.4
length and ratio
32.6varies
MPa and between 2:1 and
the stress 1/3:1, range
influence the peakto
stress in the transition section falls to between 27.4 and 32.6 MPa
between 4.57 and 9.25 m; (2) both the relation between the main roof stress concentration factor and the stress influence rangeand to
between 4.57 and 9.25 m; (2) both the relation between the main roof
the length ratio and that between the stress influence range and the length ratio form a convex curve:stress concentration factor and
the length
when the ratio
length and thatbackfilling
of the between the stressequals
section influence
that inrange and thesection
the caving length(i.e.,
ratio form
the lengtha convex curve:
ratio equals
when the length of the backfilling section equals that in the caving section
to 1:1), the stress and its influence area in the transition section will be large; when the length ratio is(i.e., the length ratio equals
tohigher
1:1), the
or stress
lower and thanits influence
1:1, the stress area
andinits the transition
influence section
area will be will be large;
smaller. Thewhen theoflength
results ratio is
the physical
higher or lower
simulation than 1:1,ofthe
experiment stress
stress andanditsitsinfluence
influencearea areainwill
thebe smaller. section
transition The resultswill of thevaluable
offer physical
simulation
guidance toexperiment
the designing of stress and its influence
of supporting intensity and areaa in the transition
supporting area insection will offer
the transition valuable
section of a
guidance to the designing
mixed longwall face. of supporting intensity and a supporting area in the transition section of a
mixedIn longwall
conclusion,face.the results of the physical simulation experiment studying the overlying strata’s
In conclusion,
movement characteristics, the results of the physical
including simulation
the overlying strata’sexperiment studying the
fracture development overlying
features, mainstrata’s
roof
movement
displacement, characteristics,
and roof stress including
and its theinfluence
overlyingarea strata’s
in thefracture development
transition section, willfeatures,
offer main roof
valuable
guidance to the
displacement, anddesigning
roof stressofand theits
length ratiosarea
influence in different sectionssection,
in the transition and roof willsupport in the transition
offer valuable guidance
tosection of a mixed
the designing longwall
of the lengthface,ratiosandin will facilitate
different the field
sections application
and roof supportofinthe theBCMM
transitiontechnology.
section of a
mixed longwall face, and will facilitate the field application of the BCMM technology.
4.2. Advancing Distance Effect Analysis
4.2. Advancing Distance Effect Analysis
A three-dimensional (3D) numerical model established by the FLAC3D software with the Mohr–
A three-dimensional (3D)to numerical model established byduring
the FLAC 3D software with the
Coulomb criterion was used study the behavior of the strata the advance of the mixed
Mohr–Coulomb
coalface Ji15-31010 criterion was used to study
of the Ping-dingshan No. 12the coalbehavior
mine. The of dimensions
the strata during the advance
of the model are 300 of the
× 300
mixed
× 80 m, coalface
and theJi15 -31010 of zones
number the Ping-dingshan
and nodes are No. 12 coal
787,500 mine.
and The dimensions
820,836, respectively.ofThe the vertical
model are 300
stress
×was × 80 m, andusing
300determined the gravitational
the number of zones load, and a are
and nodes compressive
787,500 and stress (p = rH
820,836, =22.5 MPa) was
respectively. The loaded
vertical
on the
stress was topdetermined
of the model as the
using theingravitational
situ stress. The lateral
load, andboundaries
a compressive were fixed(pin=displacement
stress rH =22.5 MPa) at was
the
horizontal direction, the bottom boundary was fixed in displacement
loaded on the top of the model as the in situ stress. The lateral boundaries were fixed in displacement atat the horizontal and vertical
directions,
the horizontal and the top the
direction, boundary
bottom was set free.
boundary wasFigure
fixed in 8a displacement
shows the stratification
at the horizontalof theand numerical
vertical
model withand
directions, different
the top lithologies,
boundaryand was thesetcross
free.section
Figure of 8a
theshows
coalface theis stratification
shown in Figure 8b. The
of the width
numerical
and height of the entries
model with different lithologies, are 5.2 and 3.4 m, respectively. The mechanical properties
the cross section of the coalface is shown in Figure 8b. The widthof the rock masses
areheight
and presented of thein entries
Table 4.are 5.2 and 3.4 m, respectively. The mechanical properties of the rock masses
are presented in Table 4.
Energies 2017, 10, 1057 9 of 16
Energies 2017, 10, 1057 9 of 16

Figure 8.8. Establishment

Figure numerical models.
Establishment of numerical models. (a)
(a) FLAC 3D model
FLAC3D model and
and (b) section and
(b) cross section and
measurement station of backfilling and caving mixed mining (BCMM) coalface.
measurement station of backfilling and caving mixed mining (BCMM) coalface.

Table4.4.Mechanical
Table Mechanicalparameters
parametersof
ofthe
thecoal-rock
coal-rockmass.
mass.

Bulk Tensile Shear Angle to

Cohesion Bulk Tensile Shear Density Angle to
Lithology Cohesion Modulus Strength Modulus Density Internal
Lithology (MPa) Modulus Strength Modulus (kg/m Internal
(kg/m3))
3
(MPa) (GPa) (MPa) (GPa) Friction
(GPa) (MPa) (GPa) Friction (deg.)
(deg.)
Mudstone
Mudstone 0.8
0.8 0.5
0.5 1.7
1.7 0.4
0.4 1600
1600 32
32
Sandstone
Sandstone 1.7
1.7 1.4
1.4 2.1
2.1 1.2
1.2 2550
2550 28
28
Fine Sandstone
Fine Sandstone 2.5
2.5 1.33
1.33 2.1
2.1 1.0
1.0 2200
2200 30
30
Siltstone
Siltstone 0.6
0.6 0.6
0.6 2.5
2.5 0.5
0.5 2615
2615 35
35
Ji14 Coal 0.5 1.2 0.7 0.8 1400 28
Ji14 Coal
Sandy Mudstone
0.5
0.6
1.2
0.6
0.7
1.6
0.8
0.4
1400
2550
28
35
Sandy Mudstone
Fine Sandstone 0.6
2.5 0.6
1.33 1.6
2.1 0.4
1.0 2550
2200 35
30
Fine Sandstone
Sandy Mudstone 2.5
0.6 1.33
0.6 2.1
1.6 1.0
0.4 2200
2550 30
35
Ji15Mudstone
Sandy Coal 0.5
0.6 0.8
0.6 0.5
1.6 0.6
0.4 1450
2550 26
35
Mudstone 0.8 0.5 1.7 0.4 1600 32
Ji15 Coal 0.5 0.8 0.5 0.6 1450 26
Fine Sandstone 2.5 1.33 2.1 1.0 2200 30
Mudstone
Limestone 0.8
1.8 0.5
1.6 1.7
2.5 0.4
1.2 1600
2615 32
38
Fine Sandstone 2.5 1.33 2.1 1.0 2200 30
Limestone 1.8 1.6 2.5 1.2 2615 38
4.2.1. Evolution Law of Stress Field of BCMM
4.2.1.The
Evolution Lawanalysis
theoretical of StressinField of BCMM
Section 3 shows that the evolution law of the stress field of BCMM
is different from that of the single mining method. Using the FLAC3D numerical simulation, the
The theoretical analysis in Section 3.2 shows that the evolution law of the stress field of BCMM
data were processed by Surfer (Golden Software, Golden, CO, USA). When the mined area reached
is different from that of the single mining method. Using the FLAC3D numerical simulation, the data
a distance of 20, 50, 80, and 120 m, the evolution of the stress field of BCMM is shown in Figure 9.
were processed by Surfer (Golden Software, Golden, CO, USA). When the mined area reached a
In addition, the stress concentration factor of the front abutment pressure in the backfilling section and
distance of 20, 50, 80, and 120 m, the evolution of the stress field of BCMM is shown in Figure 9. In
caving section is shown in Figure 10.
addition, the stress concentration factor of the front abutment pressure in the backfilling section and
caving section is shown in Figure 10.
Energies 2017,
Energies 2017, 10,
10, 1057
1057 10 of
10 of 16
16
Energies 2017, 10, 1057 10 of 16

Figure 9. Evolution of the stress field of BCMM as the coalface advances: method. (a) Face advance of
Figure
Figure Evolution
9. Evolution
20 m;9.(b)
of the
of theofstress
face advance
stress field
50 m;field
of BCMM
of
(c) face
BCMM as
advanceas
the
ofthe
coalface
coalface
80 m;
advances:
advances:
(d) face
method. (a)
method.
advance 120m.
(a) Face
Face advance
advance of
of
20 m;
20 m; (b)
(b) face
face advance
advance ofof 50
50 m;
m; (c)
(c) face
face advance
advance of
of 80
80 m;
m; (d)
(d) face
face advance
advance 120m.
120m.
(a) 4.0 (b) 3.0
Backfilling section Caving section
(a) 4.0 (b) 3.0
3.5 Backfilling section
2.5 Caving section
Stress concentration factor (--)

(--) (--)

3.5 3.012
3.0 2.5
factorfactor
Stress concentration factor (--)

3.012 2.668 2.0 1.932

3.0 1.811
Stress concentration

2.5
2.668 1.648 1.932
2.0
2.132 1.811
1.5
Stress concentration

2.5 The average=2.420 1.648 1.268

2.0 1.868 The average=1.665
2.132
1.5
2.0 1.5 The average=2.420 1.868 1.0 1.268
The average=1.665

1.0
1.5 1.0 0.5
0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140
Coalface advance (m) Coalface advance (m)
1.0 0.5
0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140
Coalface advance (m) Coalface advance (m)
Figure 10. Stress concentration factor of the front abutment pressure: (a) backfilling section; (b)
caving
Figure 10.section.
Stress concentration factor of the front abutment pressure: (a) backfilling section;
Figure 10. Stress concentration factor of the front abutment pressure: (a) backfilling section; (b)
(b) caving section.
caving section.
According to Figures 9 and 10, the maximum stress concentration factor of the front abutment
pressure in the caving section is 3.012, and the average is 2.420, while in the backfilling section the
According
According
maximum to Figures
to
is only Figures
1.932 and 99 and
and 10,
10, the
the maximum
the average is 1.665. Thestress
maximum stress
resultsconcentration
concentration factor
show that the factor ofbehavior
strata’sof the
the front
front abutment
abutment
is obvious
pressure
pressure in the caving
in the section.
in the caving section
caving Through is
section isthe 3.012,
3.012, and the
and the
interaction average
average
between is 2.420,
theisbackfill while
2.420, while in the
in the
body and backfilling
thebackfilling section
overburden,section the
the sidethe
maximum
maximum
abutment is only 1.932
1.932
is pressure
only and
in and the average
the average
the transition is 1.665.
is 1.665.
section The results
The results
gradually showand
show
increases, thatthere
that the strata’s
the strata’s behavior
behavior
is a tendency is
for is obvious
obvious
stability
in the
with
in the caving section.
the compaction
caving Through the
of the backfill
section. Through interaction between
body. Additionally,
the interaction the
between the backfill
thebackfill body
deformation
body ofand
and the
thethe
two overburden, the side
entries in front
overburden, the side
of
abutment
the BCMM
abutment pressure in is
coalface
pressure in the
the transition section
different.
transition section gradually
gradually increases,
increases, andand there
there is
is aa tendency
tendency forfor stability
stability
with the compaction of the backfill body. Additionally, the deformation of the
with the compaction of the backfill body. Additionally, the deformation of the two entries in front two entries in front of
of
the4.2.2.
BCMM Deformation
coalface of
is Entries
different.
the BCMM coalface is different. in Front of the BCMM Coalface

4.2.2. Deformation of Entries in Front of the BCMM Coalface

Energies 2017, 10, 1057 11 of 16

Energies 2017, 10, 1057 11 of 16

4.2.2. Deformation of Entries in Front of the BCMM Coalface
Affected by backfilling and caving mining, the characteristics of the deformation of the head
Affected by backfilling and caving mining, the characteristics of the deformation of the head entry
entry and the tail entry are different when the BCMM coalface advances. Two surrounding rock
and the tail entry are different when the BCMM coalface advances. Two surrounding rock deformation
deformation monitoring stations, No. 1 and No. 2, were deployed 130 m from the open-off cut in the
monitoring stations, No. 1 and No. 2, were deployed 130 m from the open-off cut in the head entry and
head entry and tail entry. The contour results of the evolution of the displacement and the maximum
taildisplacement
entry. The contour results of the evolution of the displacement and the maximum displacement
curve in the two entries are shown in Figure 11 for when the BCMM coalface advances
curve in the two entries are shown
20, 50, 80, and 120 m (the distanceinbetween
Figure 11
thefor when the stations
monitoring BCMM and coalface advances
the coalface 20, 50,
is then 80,80,
110, and
12050,
m and
(the10
distance
m). between the monitoring stations and the coalface is then 110, 80, 50, and 10 m).

(a) 800 (b) 156

Tailentry Headentry Tailentry Headentry
720 144
Roof to floor convergence /mm

Two ribs convergence /mm

640 132

560 120

480 108

400 96

320 84

240 72

160 60

80 48
0 20 40 60 80 100 120 0 20 40 60 80 100 120
Distance between station and BCMM coalface Distance between station and BCMM coalface

Figure 11. The deformation curves of the entries in front of the BCMM coalface: (a) roof-to-floor
Figure 11. The deformation curves of the entries in front of the BCMM coalface: (a) roof-to-floor
convergence; (b) two-rib convergence.
convergence; (b) two-rib convergence.
As shown in Figure 11, when the distance between the BCMM coalface and the monitoring
As shown
stations in Figure
is 50–110 m, the11, when theofdistance
deformation between
the entries the BCMMstations
of the monitoring coalfaceis and the
small, andmonitoring
there is
stations is 50–110 m, the deformation of the entries of the monitoring stations is
no obvious difference. When the distance between the BCMM coalface and the monitoring stationssmall, and there is no
is 0–50difference.
obvious m, the deformation
When the speed of the between
distance entries ofthe
the BCMM
monitoring stations
coalface andis fast, and the deformation
the monitoring stations is
of m,
0–50 the the
head entry is relatively
deformation speedlarge.
of theWhen theofBCMM
entries coalface advances,
the monitoring stations the maximum
is fast, and theroof-to-floor
deformation
andhead
of the two-rib convergences
entry of large.
is relatively the tailWhen
entry are
the405 and 91
BCMM mm, respectively;
coalface advances, meanwhile,
the maximum the roof-to-floor
maximum
and two-rib convergences of the tail entry are 405 and 91 mm, respectively; meanwhile, theThe
roof-to-floor and two-rib convergences of the head entry are 602 and 131 mm, respectively. main
maximum
deformation
roof-to-floor of two-rib
and the two convergences
entries is the roof-to-floor
of the headconvergence.
entry are 602 and 131 mm, respectively. The main
deformation of the two entries is the roof-to-floor convergence.
4.2.3. Strata Behavior in the Transition Section
4.2.3. Strata
WhenBehavior
the BCMM in the Transition
coalface Section
advances a distance of 20, 50, 80, and 120 m, the subsidence curve of
theWhen
mainthe
roofBCMM
in gobcoalface
(in which the position
advances of the of
a distance monitoring
20, 50, 80,line
andis120
thenm,10,
the25, 40, and 60curve
subsidence m) is of
shown in Figure 12.
the main roof in gob (in which the position of the monitoring line is then 10, 25, 40, and 60 m) is shown
According to Figure 12a, the subsidence of the main roof in the backfilling, transition, and caving
in Figure 12.
sections increases when the BCMM mined area is growing up. The results show that the maximum
According to Figure 12a, the subsidence of the main roof in the backfilling, transition, and caving
subsidence of the main roof in the backfilling section is 0.8 m; namely, the compaction ratio is about
sections increases when the BCMM mined area is growing up. The results show that the maximum
75%. The maximum subsidence of the main roof in the caving section is 3.05 m, and the subsidence
subsidence of the main roof in the backfilling section is 0.8 m; namely, the compaction ratio is about
in the transition section lies in between. The changes are shown in detail in Figure 12b.
75%. The maximum subsidence of the main roof in the caving section is 3.05 m, and the subsidence in
According to Figure 12, we further study the behavior of the strata in the transition section, and
thegive
transition section
the optimal lies of
design in the
between. The changes
hydraumatic supports areinshown in detail
the transition in Figure
section. 12b. concentration
The stress
factor and the influence distance of the side abutment pressure for the backfill bodytransition
According to Figure 12, we further study the behavior of the strata in the section,
in the transition
andsection
give (the
the position
optimalofdesign of the hydraumatic
the monitoring supports
line is 10, 25, 40, and 60 m)in when
the transition
the BCMMsection. The stress
coalface advances
concentration factor and
is shown in Figure 13. the influence distance of the side abutment pressure for the backfill body in
the transition section (the position of the monitoring line is 10, 25, 40, and 60 m) when the BCMM
coalface advances is shown in Figure 13.
Energies 2017, 10, 1057 12 of 16
Energies 2017, 10, 1057 12 of 16
Energies 2017, 10, 1057 12 of 16
Longwall face length (m) Coalface Advance (m)
0 20 40 Longwall
60 80 face
100 length
120 (m)
140 160 180 200 220 20 40 Coalface
60 Advance
80 (m) 100 120 140
(a) 0.0 0 (b) 0.0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140
(a) 0.0
20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200 220 (b) 0.0

(m)
(m)
-0.5 -0.5

subsidence
-0.5 Transition section -0.5

subsidence
(m)

Transition section
-1.0 -1.0
(m)

-1.0
subsidence

-1.0
subsidence

-1.5 -1.5

maximum
-1.5 Backfilling section Caving section -1.5

maximum
-2.0 Backfilling section Caving section -2.0
roof

-2.0 -2.0
roof

-2.5 -2.5
Mian

roof
-2.5 Coalface Advance 20m -2.5
Mian

roof
20m
Coalface Advance 50m Backfilling section
-3.0 -3.0

Main
50m
Coalface Advance 80m Backfillingsection
Transition section
-3.0 -3.0

Main
80m
Coalface Advance 120m Backfilling-caving section Transition
Caving section
section
-3.5 Coalface Advance 120m Backfilling-caving section -3.5 Caving section
-3.5 -3.5
Figure 12.
12. Characteristics of
of strata movement
movement in the
the transition section:
section: (a) main roof subsidence;
subsidence; (b)
Figure 12. Characteristics
Figure Characteristics of strata
strata movement in
in the transition
transition section: (a)
(a) main
main roof
roof subsidence; (b)
(b)
maximum
maximum subsidence of main roof.
maximum subsidence
subsidence of
of main
main roof.
roof.
(a) 3.0 (b) 12
(a) 3.0 Transition section (b) 12 Transition section
Transition section Transition section
10
2.5 10
(--)(--)

(m)

2.5 2.332
(m)

2.332
factor

2.172 8
distance
factor

2.172 8 8
distance

2.024 8 7
2.024
concentration

2.0 7 6.5
concentration

2.0 6.5
influence

1.708 The average=2..059 6 5.5

influence

1.708 The average=2..059 6 5.5 The average =6.75m

The average =6.75m
1.5
Stress
Stress

1.5 4
Stress
Stress

1.0 2
1.0 0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 20 20 40 60 80 100 120 140
0 20 40Coalface
60 advance
80 (m)100 120 140 0 20 40Coalface
60 advance
80 (m)100 120 140
Coalface advance (m) Coalface advance (m)

13. The stress concentration factor and the influence area in

Figure 13. in the
the transition
transition section:
section: (a) stress
Figure 13. The stress concentration factor and the influence area in the transition section: (a) stress
factor; (b)
concentration factor; (b) stress
stress influence
influence area.
area.
concentration factor; (b) stress influence area.

According to Figure 13, the side abutment pressure in the transition section gradually increases,
According
According to to Figure
Figure 13,
13, the side abutment pressure in the transition section gradually increases,
and there is a tendency for stability with the compaction of the backfill body. When the BCMM
and
and there
thereisisa tendency
a tendency forfor
stability withwith
stability the compaction of theof
the compaction backfill body. When
the backfill body.the BCMM
When the coalface
BCMM
coalface has advanced a distance of 20, 50, 80, and 120 m, the average stress concentration factor of
has advanced
coalface a distance
has advanced of 20, 50,of
a distance 80,20,
and50,120
80, m,
andthe average
120 m, the stress
averageconcentration factor of factor
stress concentration the side
of
the side abutment pressure for the backfill body in the transition section is 2.059, and the average
abutment pressure for the backfill body in the transition section is 2.059, and the average
the side abutment pressure for the backfill body in the transition section is 2.059, and the average influence
influence distance is 6.75 m.
distance
influenceisdistance
6.75 m. is 6.75 m.

5. Engineering
5. Engineering Design and and Application
5. Engineering Design
Design and Application
Application
In
In response to the verified production capacity
capacity of 1.50 1.50 milliont/a
t/a of the
the Ping-dingshan No. No. 12
In response
response to to the
the verified
verified production
production capacityof of 1.50million
million t/a ofof the Ping-dingshan
Ping-dingshan No. 12 12
Colliery,
Colliery, the
the total
total length
length of
of the
the Ji
Ji 15 -31010
-31010 longwall
longwall face
face is
is designed
designed to
to be
be 220
220 m.
m. The
The backfilling
backfilling
Colliery, the total length of the Ji15-31010 longwall face is designed to be 220 m. The backfilling
15
materials for
materials for the mixed
mixed longwall face face are mainly
mainly washed gangue gangue from the the upper protective
protective layer and
and
materials for the
the mixed longwall
longwall face are are mainly washed
washed gangue from from the upper
upper protective layer
layer and
waste
waste rock from other development works. Relations between underground gangue production and
waste rock
rock from
from other
other development
development works. works. Relations
Relations between
between underground
underground ganguegangue production
production and and
backfilling capacity
backfilling capacity conform
conform toto the
the formulas
formulas below:
below:
backfilling capacity conform to the formulas below:
M 15 ≥ M 14 + M j (1)
MM ≥ M 14 +
+MMj j (1)
15 15≥ M14 (1)
where M15 is the quantity of gangue used for backfilling in mixed longwall face, t/d; M14 is the quantity
where M15 is the quantity of gangue used for backfilling in mixed longwall face, t/d; M14 is the quantity
where M15sorted
of gangue is the and
quantity of gangue
selected used forface
for the longwall backfilling in mixedseam,
in the protective longwall face,Mt/d;
t/d; and Mquantity
j is the 14 is the
of gangue sorted and selected for the longwall face in the protective seam, t/d; and Mj is the quantity
quantity
of waste of
rockgangue
from sorted and selected for
other development the longwall
works, t/d. face in the protective seam, t/d; and Mj is the
of waste rock from other development works, t/d.
quantity
The of waste
daily rock from
gangue other development
consumption in the mixed works, t/d.face in the protected layer is calculated as
longwall
The daily gangue consumption in the mixed longwall face in the protected layer is calculated as
The daily gangue consumption in the mixed longwall face in the protected layer is calculated as
follows:
follows:
follows:
M 15 ≥ v1 L1 H 1 ρ c (2)
M 15 ≥ v1 L1 H 1 ρ c (2)
Energies 2017, 10, 1057 13 of 16

M15 ≥ v1 L1 H1 ρc (2)

v1 is 2017,
whereEnergies 10, 1057advance of the mixed longwall face, m/d; L1ct is length of the backfilling
the daily 13 ofsection
16
in a coal face, m; H1ct is the available height for backfilling, m; and ρc is the apparent density of loose
where
gangue, t/mv13is
. the daily advance of the mixed longwall face, m/d; L1ct is length of the backfilling section
in a coal face,
Connecting Formulasm; H1ct is the
(1)available
and (2), height for backfilling,
the length m; and ρcsection
of the backfilling is the apparent densitylongwall
in the mixed of loose face
gangue, t/m3.
of Ji15 -31010 is:
Connecting Formulas (1) and (2), the lengthMof the backfilling section in the mixed longwall face
14 + M j
of Ji15-31010 is: L1 ≥ . (3)
v1 H1 ρc
j . M +M
In view of the actual conditions of Ping-dinghan L1 ≥ 14 No. 12 Colliery, where Mj is 430 t/d, (3)M14 is
v H ρ
1 1 c
724 m/d, V 1 is 2.4 m/d, ρc is 1.85 t/m3 , and H1 2.3 m in Formula (3), the resulting L1 is 113 m, i.e.,
the minimum In view of theofactual
length conditions section
the backfilling of Ping-dinghan
shall be No. 113 12m.Colliery, where Mj is 430 t/d, M14 is 724
m/d, V 1 is 2.4 m/d, ρc is 1.85 t/m3, and H1 2.3 m in Formula (3), the resulting L1 is 113 m, i.e., the
According to Figure 6 in Section 4.2.1, to ensure that the overlying strata’s fracture reaches the
upperminimum
protective length of the backfilling section shall be 113 m.
layer, and to optimize the effect of gas drainage, the length ratio of the backfilling
According to Figure 6 in Section 4.2.1, to ensure that the overlying strata’s fracture reaches the
length and the caving length should be kept under 1.44 (i.e., the length of the gangue backfilling section
upper protective layer, and to optimize the effect of gas drainage, the length ratio of the backfilling
shall length
be no more than 129 m). Therefore, the length of the backfilling section of the mixed longwall
and the caving length should be kept under 1.44 (i.e., the length of the gangue backfilling
face should be 113–129
section shall be no more m. Inthan
reality,
129 the
m). actual length
Therefore, the of the backfilling
length section
of the backfilling in theofmine
section is 120 m.
the mixed
As statedface
longwall above, thebe
should key equipment
113–129 used inthe
m. In reality, the mixed
actual longwall
length of the face includes
backfilling a shearer,
section a scraper
in the mine
conveyor,
is 120 ordinary
m. hydraulic support, backfilling hydraulic support, a self-moving belt conveyor,
a perfomated As stated
scraperabove, the key equipment
conveyor, etc. Among used in thethe
them, mixed longwall
former threeface
areincludes
commonly a shearer,
used ainscraper
the caving
method, and the others in the backfilling method, and their selection criteria shall comply withathose
conveyor, ordinary hydraulic support, backfilling hydraulic support, a self-moving belt conveyor,
perfomated
two mining scrapercorrespondingly
methods conveyor, etc. Among them,So,
as well. the this
former threefocuses
paper are commonly
on theused in the caving
selection of support
method, and the others in the backfilling method, and their selection criteria shall comply with those
equipment used in the transition section. Based on the experimental results as shown in Section 4.2.3,
two mining methods correspondingly as well. So, this paper focuses on the selection of support
it is primarily identified that a ZCG5200/20/40 hydraulic support working resistance in the backfilling
equipment used in the transition section. Based on the experimental results as shown in Section 4.2.3,
section is sufficient to support the roof. In the final design, two ZCGa5200/20/40 hydraulic supports,
it is primarily identified that a ZCG5200/20/40 hydraulic support working resistance in the backfilling
one ZCGb5200/20/40
section is sufficienthydraulic
to supportsupport
the roof. and one
In the ZCGc5200/20/40
final hydraulic support,
design, two ZCGa5200/20/40 hydraulicare used in the
supports,
transition section with 1.5
one ZCGb5200/20/40 m of width;
hydraulic supportthe effective
and supporting area
one ZCGc5200/20/40 in the
hydraulic transition
support, section
are used in theis 6 m,
the average
transition supporting
section with intensity
1.5 m ofiswidth;
0.84 MPa, and thesupporting
the effective floor-specific
area pressure is 1.98 section
in the transition MPa. The is 6 gangue
m,
the average
blocking plate issupporting intensity isclose
specially designed 0.84 MPa,
to theand the floor-specific
caving pressurethe
section to protect is 1.98 MPa. The
hydraulic gangue
supports.
blocking
In order plate is specially
to monitor the designed close to the the
strata’s behaviors, caving section to protect
equipment’s the hydraulic
operation, supports.
and optimize the mixed
longwall In faceorder to monitor
design, stressthe strata’s behaviors,
monitoring instrumentsthe equipment’s
are installed operation, and optimize
on the supports the backfilling
in the mixed
longwall face design, stress monitoring instruments are installed on the supports in the backfilling
section, transition section, and caving section to monitor the support resistance as it advances. Figure 14
section, transition section, and caving section to monitor the support resistance as it advances. Figure
shows the stress change curves of the supports in the backfilling section (7# support), transition section
14 shows the stress change curves of the supports in the backfilling section (7# support), transition
(12# support), and caving section (18# support) when the mixed longwall face advanced from 15 July
section (12# support), and caving section (18# support) when the mixed longwall face advanced from
2014 to 27 September 2014.
15 July 2014 to 27 September 2014.

45
40
35
Prop resistance (MPa)

30
25
20
15 12# support in caving section
10 18# support in transitioning section
7# support in backfilling section
5
2014.7.15 2014.7.23 2014.8.4 2014.8.16 2014.8.23 2014.9.3 2014.9.12 2014.9.18 2014.9.23 2014.9.27
Date

(a) (b)
Figure 14. Prop resistance measurement by the supports in the mixed longwall face: (a) scene photos;
Figure 14. Prop resistance measurement by the supports in the mixed longwall face: (a) scene photos;
(b) the curve of the prop resistance
(b) the curve of the prop resistance.
As Figure 14 shows, the average prop resistance of the support in the caving section, the
As Figuresection,
transition 14 shows,
andthe
the average prop
backfilling resistance
section of 30.30,
are 34.85, the support in MPa,
and 25.25 the caving section,
respectively. thereason
The transition
whyand
section, the support resistance
the backfilling in the caving
section section
are 34.85, is higher
30.30, and is that the
25.25 MPa,gobrespectively.
in the caving section is not why
The reason
backfilled and the roof caves naturally, while the pressure in the backfilling section is relatively lower
Energies 2017, 10, 1057 14 of 16

the support resistance in the caving section is higher is that the gob in the caving section is not
Energies 2017, 10, 1057 14 of 16
backfilled and the roof caves naturally, while the pressure in the backfilling section is relatively
lower
due todue thetobackfilling
the backfilling
body.body.
StressStress in the
in the transition
transition sectionisisconcentrated,
section concentrated,and and the
the overall
overall
performance
performance of the supports in the longwall face is satisfactory. The field measurement results are
of the supports in the longwall face is satisfactory. The field measurement results are
consistent
consistent with
with the theoverlying
overlyingstrata’s
strata’smovement
movementfeatures
featuresstated
stated inin
Section
Section 3. 3.2.
Therefore, to ensure
Therefore, to ensuresafe
mining, it is necessary
safe mining, to improve
it is necessary monitoring
to improve of support
monitoring performance
of support in the transition
performance section and
in the transition the
section
caving section.
and the caving section.
The overlying strata’s
The overlying strata’sfracture
fracturedevelopment
developmentfeatures
features in in
thethe mixed
mixed longwall
longwall faceface
playplay
a key a role
key
role [22–24] in reducing the gas content and ensuring safety in the process
[22–24] in reducing the gas content and ensuring safety in the process of mining Ji15-31010. By of mining Ji 15 -31010.
By measuring
measuring the the borehole
borehole fracture
fracture and and the flushing
the flushing fluidfluid leakage
leakage in Ji15in Ji15 -31010’s
-31010’s haulage
haulage roadway roadwaywhen
when the mixed
the mixed longwall longwall faceadvancing
face was was advancing
from 23 from 23 March
March 2013 to 2013
3 Mayto 32013,
May the2013, the changing
changing curve curveof the
of the maximum
maximum overlyingoverlying strata’s
strata’s fracture
fracture development
development height
height during
during thetheadvancing
advancingofof the
the mixed
mixed
longwall face is obtained and is shown in Figure
longwall face is obtained and is shown in Figure 15 below: 15 below:

21 90
Fracture development Gas drainage efficiency
80
Fracture development height (m)

18
Gas drainage efficiency(%)

70
15
60
12
50
9
40

6
30

3 20
10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120 130 2013/01/17 2013/02/20 2013/03/12 2013/04/01 2013/04/21 2013/05/11 2013/05/31 2013/06/02
Coalface Advance (m) /Date

(a) (b)
Figure 15.
Figure 15. Overlying
Overlying strata’s
strata’s fracture
fracture development
development and
and gas
gas extraction
extraction effect:
effect: (a)
(a) fracture
fracture development;
development;
(b) gas extraction effect.
(b) gas extraction effect.

Figure 15 shows that the maximum development height of the overlying strata’s fracture in the
Figure 15 shows that the maximum development height of the overlying strata’s fracture in the
mixed longwall face Ji15-31010 is 18 m; it reaches the top of the protective layer and facilitates the gas
mixed longwall face Ji15 -31010 is 18 m; it reaches the top of the protective layer and facilitates the
drainage in Ji15. The monitoring results of the gas extraction at J15-31010 from 17 January 2013 to 2
gas drainage in Ji15 . The monitoring results of the gas extraction at J15 -31010 from 17 January 2013 to
June 2013 show that the gas drainage efficiency is up to 80% and the average gas concentration is 0.1
2 June 2013 show that the gas drainage efficiency is up to 80% and the average gas concentration is
g/m3 in the end, which shows that the design engineering parameters are reasonable.
0.1 g/m3 in the end, which shows that the design engineering parameters are reasonable.
As a new coal mining technology, BCMM combines the advantages of both the traditional caving
As a new coal mining technology, BCMM combines the advantages of both the traditional caving
method and the backfilling method, and on the basis of dealing with a large number of waste rocks
method and the backfilling method, and on the basis of dealing with a large number of waste rocks
underground, the mining technology can greatly improve the efficiency of backfilling and coal
underground, the mining technology can greatly improve the efficiency of backfilling and coal mining.
mining. At the same time, it can control the strata’s movement and have a good effect compared with
At the same time, it can control the strata’s movement and have a good effect compared with the caving
the caving method, just like strip mining. The technology can further realize the coal resources’
method, just like strip mining. The technology can further realize the coal resources’ exploitation and
exploitation and environmental protection in China’s coal mines, which have broad application
environmental protection in China’s coal mines, which have broad application prospects.
prospects.
6. Conclusions
6. Conclusions
(1) This paper introduces the longwall principle and key techniques of the mixed fully-mechanized
(1) This paper introduces the longwall principle and key techniques of the mixed fully-mechanized
coal mining method, and compares the different features of the overlying strata’s movement
coal mining method, and compares the different features of the overlying strata’s movement in
in mining operations using backfilling and caving mixed mining technology and those using
mining operations using backfilling and caving mixed mining technology and those using
conventional single mining technology.
conventional single mining technology.
(2) A physical experiment and numerical simulation were carried out to study the overlying strata’s
(2) A physical experiment and numerical simulation were carried out to study the overlying strata’s
growth features, the goaf-roof displacement, the strain and its influence area in the transition
growth features, the goaf-roof displacement, the strain and its influence area in the transition
section with the length ratios for the backfilling section and caving section, advancing distance
section with the length ratios for the backfilling section and caving section, advancing distance
change, and identifies the basic overlying strata’s features in the mixed longwall face.
change, and identifies the basic overlying strata’s features in the mixed longwall face.
(3) Based on the physical similar simulation experiment and numerical simulation, key parameters
such as the lengths of the backfilling section and the caving section, the model of supports used
Energies 2017, 10, 1057 15 of 16

(3) Based on the physical similar simulation experiment and numerical simulation, key parameters
such as the lengths of the backfilling section and the caving section, the model of supports used
in the transition section and their supporting effect are set, and the design process of the mixed
longwall face is confirmed.
(4) The mixed longwall face mining carried out at Ji15 -31010 of Ping-dingshan No. 12 Colliery shows
that the average working resistance for supports in the caving section, transition section, and
backfilling section in the mixed longwall face is 35.15, 30.60, and 25.25 MPa respectively, and
the supports applied are performing well; the maximum growth height of the overlying strata’s
fracture in the longwall face is 18 m; the gas drainage efficiency is up to 80% and the average gas
concentration is 0.1 g/m3 : all parameters meet the requirements for a practical mining operation.

Acknowledgments: This work is supported by the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities
(2015XKMS001). The authors gratefully acknowledge the financial support from the organization mentioned above.
Author Contributions: Jixiong Zhang proposed the innovative points and conceived the study; Yanli Huang
established and solved the numerical and physical model; Wei Yin and Qiang Sun analyzed the data; Wei Yin
wrote the paper; Qiang Sun revised the paper.
Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.

References
1. Yuan, L. Key technique of safe mining in low permeability and methane-rich seam group. Chin. J. Rock.
Mech. Eng. 2008, 27, 1371–1378.
2. Yuan, C.F. Development and application of gas-geology in China. J. China. Coal. Soc. 1997, 22, 566–570.
3. Cheng, Y.P.; YU, Q.X. Development of regional gas control technology for Chinese coalmines. J. Min. Saf. Eng.
2007, 24, 383–390.
4. Fu, J.H.; Cheng, Y.P. Situation of coal and gas outburst in China and control countermeasures. J. Min. Saf. Eng.
2007, 24, 253–259.
5. Liang, Y. Technique of coal mining and gas extraction without coal pillar in multi-seam with low permeability.
J. Coal. Sci. Eng. 2009, 15, 120–128.
6. Lin, B.Q.; Li, H.; Yuan, D.S. Development and application of an efficient gas extraction model for low-rank
high-gas coal beds. Int. J. Coal. Sci. Technol. 2015, 2, 76–83. [CrossRef]
7. Lu, P.; Yuan, L.; Cheng, H. Theory and experimental studies of enhanced gas drainage in the high gas face of
low permeability coal multi- seams. J. China. Coal. Soc. 2010, 35, 580–585.
8. Bian, Z.F.; Miao, X.X.; Lei, S.G. The challenges of reusing mining and mineral-processing wastes. Science
2012, 337, 702–703. [CrossRef] [PubMed]
9. Miao, X.X.; Zhang, J.X.; Guo, G.L. Study on waste-filling method and technology in fully- mechanized coal
mining. J. China. Coal. Soc. 2010, 35, 1–6.
10. Zhang, J.X. Study on Strata Movement Controlling by Raw Waste Backfilling with Fully-Mechanized Coal Winning
Technology and its Engineering Applications; China University of Mining and Technology: Beijing, China, 2008.
11. Zhang, J.X.; Miao, X.X.; Guo, G.L. Development status of backfilling technology using raw waste in coal
mining. J. Min. Saf. Eng. 2009, 26, 395–401.
12. Zhang, J.X.; Zhang, Q.; Sun, Q. Surface subsidence control theory and application to backfill coal mining
technology. Environ. Earth. Sci. 2015, 74, 1438–1448. [CrossRef]
13. Sun, Q.; Zhang, J.X.; Ju, F. Research and application of schemes for constructing concrete pillars in large
section finishing cut in backfill coal mining. Int. J. Min. Sci. Technol. 2015, 25, 915–920. [CrossRef]
14. Huang, Y.L.; Zhang, J.X.; Zhang, Q. Backfilling technology of substituting waste and fly ash for coal
underground. Environ. Eng. Manag. J. 2011, 10, 769–775.
15. Zhang, J.X.; Zhang, Q.; Huang, Y.L. Strata movement controlling effect of waste and fly ash backfillings in
fully mechanized coal mining with backfilling face. Min. Sci. Technol. 2011, 21, 721–726. [CrossRef]
16. Zhang, J.X.; Zhang, Q.; Spearing, A.J.S.; Miao, X.X.; Guo, S.; Sun, Q. Green coal mining technique integrating
mining-dressing-gas draining-backfilling-mining. Int. J. Min. Sci. Technol. 2017, 27, 17–27. [CrossRef]
17. Yin, W.; Miao, X.X.; Zhang, J.X.; Zhong, S.J. Mechanical analysis of effective pressure relief protection range
of upper protective seam mining. Int. J. Min. Sci. Technol. 2017, 27, 537–543. [CrossRef]
Energies 2017, 10, 1057 16 of 16

18. Kostecki, T.; Spearing, A.J.S. Influence of backfill on coal pillar strength and floor bearing capacity in weak
floor conditions in the Illinois Basin. Int. J. Rock. Mech. Min. 2015, 76, 55–67. [CrossRef]
19. Sivakugan, N.; Rankine, R.M.; Rankine, K.J. Geotechnical consideration in mine backfilling in Australia.
J. Clean. Prod. 2006, 14, 1168–1175. [CrossRef]
20. Huang, Y.L.; Zhang, J.X.; An, B.F. Overlying strata movement law in fully mechanized coal mining and
backfilling longwall face by similar physical simulation. J. Min. Sci. 2011, 47, 618–627.
21. Booth, C.J. Confined-unconfined changes above longwall coal mining due to increases in fracture porosity.
Environ. Eng. Geosci. 2007, 13, 355–367. [CrossRef]
22. Lai, X.P.; Shan, P.F.; Cao, J.T. Simulation of asymmetric destabilization of mine-void rock masses using a
large 3d physical model. Rock. Mech. Rock. Eng. 2015, 49, 487–502. [CrossRef]
23. Majdi, A.; Hassani, F.P.; Nasiri, M.Y. Prediction of the height of destressed zone above the mined panel roof
in longwall coal mining. Int. J. Coal. Geol. 2012, 98, 62–72. [CrossRef]
24. Sarfarazi, V.; Ghazvinian, A.; Schubert, W. Numerical simulation of the process of fracture of echelon rock
joints. Rock. Mech. Rock. Eng. 2014, 47, 1355–1371. [CrossRef]

© 2017 by the authors. Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland. This article is an open access
article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution
(CC BY) license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).