Roof support control in longwall technology

The article describes the structure of the selected Support Control System subsystems belonging to the automated longwall equipment complex. It shows some singularities resulting from the application conditions that must be taken into consideration while designing the particular control system, especially power restriction. It demonstrates how the relevant standards of ATEX regulation – coal mine with methane and coal dust explosion hazard – are taken into consideration. The structure of the automated longwall equipment complex is mentioned, emphasizing Support Control Unit (SCU) and meeting the intrinsic safety requirements. The article also describes the external module watch-dog, a communication subsystem, including the solution meeting the intrinsic safety requirements. The technical solution of low-input energizing of electro-hydraulic valves within the limited power conditions is presented.