Optimizing Shearer Web Width in Underground Mining of Gently Dipping Methane-Bearing Coal Seams

Abstract

Specifications of domestic and foreign shearers are given. The problem is formulated for optimizing web width of a shearer by the maximum capacity criterion with regard to geological and technology factors. The analytical solution is obtained for the problem using the approximating linear functions of the sloughing factor and the web width. The influences of the optimal web width of shearer are analyzed, and the related recommendations are made. The extremal curve of methane release from broken coal is shown, and the allowable capacity of face by the gas criterion is tested in longwall 5214-1 in the Yalevsky Mine of the Kuznetsk Coal Basin.