Hydraulic Control Systems for Longwall Shield Supports in Coal Mines

Abstract Recent shield support developments demand a new approach to hydraulic control systems due to higher support loads, heavier supports and greater speed of operation demanded to cater for modern coal machines. The paper reviews system requirements and systems currently developed i.e.:-. Adjacent support control. Bi-directional adjacent control. Sequential control. Electro-hydraulic push button control. Full remote operation. Also examines auxiliary systems. Contact advance. High pressure setting. Guaranteed set. Steep seam systems.