Mathematical modeling of tight roof periodical falling

The paper proposes a method to determine of a coal seam roof falling step basing upon the analysis of stress and strain state of the rock mass area with mine workings formed as a result of coal preparatory and extraction operations. A boundary element method has been applied to define stress and strain state (SSS). Fissuring of enclosing rocks was modeled by means of transversal-isotropic medium. Dependence of destructed rocks zone height within the roof of a seam being mined upon the weakening of the rock mass due to its fissuring and mine working geometry has been determined. Effect of fissility on the periodical roof falling step has been studied. Changes in support loads in the process of stope advance have been determined. A scheme of partial backfilling of the worked out area has been proposed to maintain the support in its working order