Criteria for the difficulty of working out coal-bearing zones of quarry fields

Abstract

Coal-bearing zones of open pit fields are represented by formations of coal seams from inclined to steep bedding with unstable thickness, both in dip and strike with different dip angles even within the same strata, with varying rock inter-layers and strength. In addition, most coal seams have a complex structure, including rock layers inside. In most cases, there is an uneven distribution of coal seams, and, consequently, coal reserves over the area of quarry fields. In this regard, for the analysis of quarry fields, there is a need to select criteria for assessing the complexity of coal-bearing zones for the purpose of systematizing them and choosing directions for constructing technological schemes for excavation and loading operations and mining methods.