A new cavability assessment for Longwall Top Coal Caving from discontinuum numerical analysis

This paper presents a new criterion for assessing top coal cavability in Longwall Top Coal Caving mining technology. Top coal Cavability Index (TCI) criterion was developed through a parametric study, statistical analysis and validation against field monitoring data. A discontinuum modelling technique with plastic rock material was used to quantify the impact of parameters on top coal cavability in a more realistic manner. The study demonstrated...