Authors: D.V. Azev, A.A. Khoreshok, S.O. Markov, M.A. Tyulenev

Title of the article: On the order for thin seams extracting in rock-and-coal cut

Year: 2026, Issue: 2, Pages: 199-209

Branch of knowledge: 2.8.8 Geotechnology, mining machines

Index UDK: 622.271.3

DOI: 10.26730/1999-4125-2026-2-199-209

Abstract: Open-pit mining operations in Siberia are exploiting deposits, most of which (over 80%) have a complex structure with 10-15 rock partings ranging in thickness from a few centimeters to 1-2 m and ash content of up to 70-80%. According to the existing classification, coal seams with a complex structure (88%) are mined using the bulk or layer-by-layer method, i.e., first the rock is removed, then the coal seam is cleaned, after which the coal is extracted together with the rock layers located in it. In most cases (more than 90%), rock partings do not have a significant effect on the ash content of coal, i.e., the extracted coal is sold without enrichment, as it meets the required ash content standards. Based on this, the extraction of complex seams with rock partings can be considered selective. An analysis of the mining and geological conditions, seam structure, and mining technology shows that the existing classification of coal seam extraction methods does not fully characterize the technologies used in terms of quality characteristics and the organization of overburden removal and winning operations, nor does it take into account their alternation directly at the face. It has been determined that, based on these factors, mining methods should be divided into selective, bulk, and selective-bulk. The article presents a number of dependencies obtained for determining the degree of coal dilution at various ratios of the dip angle of the seam and the angle of the natural slope of the loosened rock mass.

Key words: open-pit mining bulk excavation selective excavation selective-bulk excavation complex-structured deposits thin seams coal dilution

Receiving date: 18.01.2026

Approval date: 31.01.2026

Publication date: 29.06.2026

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