Application of a Generalised Influence Function Method for Subsidence Prediction in Multi-seam Longwall Extraction

The purpose of mining subsidence prediction is to produce a reliable assessment of ground movement arising from underground mineral extraction. The results of the prediction are used to assess the likelihood of the associated effects on surface structures. In most countries, the assessment of mining subsidence has become an essential part of mining plans, which must be approved by relevant government bodies and mining regulators. It is therefore important to develop a subsidence prediction method that is suitable for a particular country or mine field. Further to the recent development of a Generalised Influence Function Method (GIFM) for subsidence prediction at RMIT University, a case study in Hunter coalfield of in New South Wales, Australia is presented to illustrate the applicability of the GIFM approach for subsidence prediction in multi-seam longwall mining. A computer program is used to calculate subsidence, horizontal displacement and principle strains arising from the extraction of longwall panels. The observed subsidence across the longwall panels and the corresponding ground movements are compared to the model’s output and the results analysed. A discussion of the discrepancies between the GIFM models and the behaviour of complex geological strata is presented. The GIFM method is found to be a powerful tool when applied to complex extraction configurations and can produce useful output for mining subsidence assessments. Of particular importance is its ability to provide both tensile and compressive strain information over the whole affected areas which would otherwise not have been available for the assessment of damage potential to surface structures.