Estimating the remaining operating time of mining headframe with consideration of its current technical condition

Abstract

The condition of headframes in underground mines has a substantial effect on the proper operation and safety of hoisting equipment. One of the potential problems that might occur during operation is the tilting of these structures, which can lead to difficulties in operation and, in extreme cases, to failures. The paper presents an original method of evaluating the technical condition of headframes, estimating the remaining operating time and finding the causes of irregularities in the operation of this kind of structures. To show this, a series of experimental studies and structural analyses were conducted on a model headframe. Based on experimental tests and numerical calculations, the operational safety of the structure was established along with limit values of operational parameters and possible preventative measures were proposed.