Impact of geometry of the powered roof support section on the rock mass

The required functions of the powered roof support, the functions it must fulfil and the mechanical elements cause that the support practically continuously works with the rock mass. This applies to the canopy, the floor base and the shield support. Due to the different susceptibility and strength of the rocks, the roof support may lose its stability. This condition results in an uneven section load and difficulties with moving forward the support in the underground excavation. This, in turn, can lead to disturbances in the operation of the entire longwall system. In order to avoid this situation, it is necessary to conduct geometry tests, e.g. section tests for a dedicated testing station using innovative measuring inclinometers. They indicate the importance of proper geometry for proper and correct operation of the support section. The research was carried out with the use of a new methodology designed to test the geometry of powered roof supports. The solutions were developed by the author of the article.