Combined support mechanism of rock bolts and anchor cables for adjacent roadways in the external staggered split-level panel layout

Using the spatial structure of the external staggered split-level panel layout, a combined support technology for adjacent roadways was developed and analyzed for a rock bolt and anchor cable mechanism. The influence of the side rock bolt and anchor cable parameters on the mechanical properties of the anchorage body and the support stress distribution of the lateral coal body were revealed using the FLAC3D software. The optimal support parameters of the side rock bolts and anchor cables were subsequently determined, and the support effect of gob-side entry in a mining scenario was verified. The results show that the support of the side rock bolts and anchor cables improves the mechanical properties and stress state of the anchorage body, producing a good protective effect on the coal body of the air-intake entry roof and side wall. This is beneficial to the stability of the side wall and the realization of the suspension effect for roof rock bolts and anchor cables, which in turn makes the surrounding rock maintenance of the gob-side entry to a thick coal seam more favorable.