Mining Publication: Standing Support Alternatives in Western Longwalls

Western U.S. mines have had limited choices for standing support. Wood cribs were often too soft and unstable. The introduction of the Can support in the early 1990s provided a very effective alternative and remains the dominant form of tailgate support. Water-filled prestressing cells are now used to cap the Can and preload it to provide an active roof load. The Cluster Prop, consisting of three timber wedge props bundled together, provides more capacity than an equivalent-sized Can support and improves transport efficiency. However, the Cluster Prop is less stable and does not maintain a consistent load throughout its loading profile. Pumpable roof supports are another alternative support, but they have not been proven in high-deformation environments. Alternative supports are also being used in longwall recovery operations. These include the Rocprop and Omni Prop, which are extendable support systems. They also provide active roof loading, which can be beneficial in these applications. Specialty supports, such as the Sand Prop and Spider Prop, have also been introduced into western longwall operations. This paper compares the performance characteristics of these various support systems.