Measurement and evaluation of loads and convergences in underground coal mines with regard to roaf control

In this study, load and convergence measurements were taken from seven different longwalls of Tunçbilek and Ömerler colliery run by Western Lignite Corporation and Darkale colliery run by Aegean Lignite Corporation, which employ longwall mining with sublevel caving. As well as load and convergence measurements, the mean and maximum load densities have been estimated by determining the support densities in the longwalls. In addition, same measurements were taken from the device located on the roof of drifts, in order to determine the height of immediate roof in Ömerler colliery. Load densities have been estimated by using theoretical analysis for the seven longwalls. The results obtained have been compared to the actual measured results.