Coal Mine Barrier Pillar Design

By Dale Hamilton, geologist, MSHA Roof Control Division

As coal mine operators in the U.S. extract deeper seams, barrier pillar design becomes one of the most critical elements for safe and successful extraction of reserves. Mine operators employ different strategies and design techniques for coping with high-stress during extraction of these reserves. This presentation will explore the state-of-the-art in empirical barrier pillar design techniques and loading models used within the software “Analysis of Coal Pillar Stability.” It will transition into an overview of the methods employed in deep room-and-pillar and longwall mining operations.