Investigations Aimed to Improve Tailgate Serviceability at Dartbrook Mine

Dartbrook Mine has experienced rib control difficulties because of deterioration in the tailgate corner of the longwall face as overburden depth has increased. This paper summarises an investigation to optimise support and develop strategies to improve the serviceability of the tailgate roadways. Field measurements undertaken in the tailgate of Longwall 6 identified roadway softening mechanisms, deformation characteristics and factors controlling deformation. This provides the basis for optimising the reinforcement system as part of an ongoing Strata Management Plan at the mine.