Using numerical simulation for the prediction of mine dewatering from a karst water system underlying the coal seam in the Yuxian Basin, Northern China

Water inrush from a karst aquifer threatens mine safety in North China because of the special hydrogeological conditions. This paper systematically analyzes the regional hydrogeological conditions of the Cambrian–Ordovician limestone karst aquifer in the Yuxian Basin. Conceptual and mathematical models of karst water flow system are established, and the karst water flow system is simulated by the finite-difference method. The numerical model is checked using hydraulic head from karst water observation holes, and the sensitivity of hydrogeological parameters is analyzed. Further, the risk of water inrush from the karst aquifer underlying the coal seam in the second mining area of the Beiyangzhuang Mine in the basin is evaluated by the water inrush coefficient method. Based on the critical hydraulic head for mining safety, the rate of mine dewatering is simulated for the three stages of the mining plan with the numerical model. The results show that the risk of water inrush in the second mining area is high. The rate of dewatering in the three stages without grouting is 1300, 1860, and 2050 m³/h, respectively, and with local grouting is 1020, 1550, and 1700 m³/h, respectively. Dewatering combined with grouting not only ensures coal mine safety, but also significantly reduces the rate of dewatering. The prediction method of mine dewatering has practical significance in engineering applications.