List the different ranks of coal and explain the primary difference between them.
[3 marks]Enumerate the main factors affecting the choice of a coal mining method.
[4 marks]Discuss the factors that determine the optimum size of pillars and panels in bord and pillar method.
[7 marks]List the types of machinery commonly used during the development phase of a coal mine.
[3 marks]Explain the concept of a "panel" in underground coal mining and its role in design and development.
[4 marks]Explain the concept of "Extraction by Caving" and "Extraction by Stowing" as a pillar extraction technique in Bord and Pillar method. .
[7 marks]Describe the Pneumatic Stowing method and list its main merits and demerits
[7 marks]How coal seams are classified based on their thickness?
[3 marks]Outline the general practices for opening up new coal deposits in major coalfields.
[4 marks]How do engineers calculate how many pillars are needed in a panel? Give a sample calculation.
[7 marks]Contrast the layout and production potential of Single and Double unit longwall faces.
[3 marks]Explain the application and function of a DERDS (Double Ended Ranging Drum Shearer).
[4 marks]Describe the unit operations of winning, loading, and haulage in a Bord and Pillar mine.
[7 marks]How does the rate of pillar extraction affect strata control and overall mine safety? Page 1 of
[2 marks]Differentiate between the application and mechanism of timber props and friction/hydraulic props.
[4 marks]Differentiate between the Advancing and Retreating Longwall systems in terms of panel development and ventilation with neat sketch.
[7 marks]What is the function of the Armoured Face Conveyor (AFC), and where is it positioned?
[3 marks]Distinguish between Cyclic and Non-cyclic operations in Longwall mining.
[4 marks]Detail the necessary arrangements for stowing material on the surface (Collection, Preparation, Storage).
[7 marks]Summarize the concept and importance of Systematic Supporting Rules.
[3 marks]Explain the function, applicability, and advantage of roof bolting.
[4 marks]Describe the construction and function of cogs and hydraulic chocks as roof supports.
[7 marks]What are the key factors considered when determining the optimum length of a longwall face?
[3 marks]Compare and contrast Mechanical Stowing with Hydraulic Stowing in terms of applicability and demerits.
[4 marks]List and briefly describe the different types of roof bolts used in underground coal mines. Page 2 of
[2 marks]