Renovation of the retention bunker lining on the example of the Mysłowice-Wesoła coal mine

¹ JSW S.A. Mining Group, 4 Jana Pawła II Ave., 44-330 Jastrzębie-Zdrój, Poland
² PGG S.A., KWK “Mysłowice-Wesoła”, 5 Kopalniana St., 41-408 Mysłowice, Poland
³ Central Mining Institute-National Research Institute, 1 Gwarków Sq., 40-166 Katowice, Poland

^* Corresponding author: mrotkegel@gig.eu

Abstract

The scientific article focuses on the analysis, renovation and modernization of the retention bunker No. 4 at the 465 m level in the Mysłowice-Wesoła coal mine complex. This bunker, a key part of the mining infrastructure, has an important function in the coal mining process, accumulating output before its further transport to the surface. During a regular inspection of the bunker, significant damage was found in the form of defects on the lining, caused by the impacts of the output flow. Repair efforts required a comprehensive approach, including the use of rope access techniques (industrial mountaineering) for precise damage assessment and repair. The research and repair work included the installation of rappelling stations, rope access rappelling, non-destructive testing, bolting, concrete encasement of the damage, and other innovative repair techniques. Careful adaptation of operations to underground conditions and precise planning of logistics and repair work were key to successfully restoring the bunker’s stability and functionality. An analysis of the renovation process reveals the comprehensiveness of the measures, covering both the north and south sides of the bunker. The use of bolting, steel mesh, and innovative approaches allowed for the successful repair of damage. The ultimate success of the renovation helped minimize the risk of further damage and restore the integrity of the No. 4 retention bunker. The article also highlights the often-downplayed role of bunker in mining infrastructure, arguing that despite having ready-made longwalls and roadways, the absence of a functional bunker makes a coal mining system incomplete.