optimum location of surface wells for remote pressure relief coalbed methane drainage in mining areas

• Published in: Mining science and technology (China) 2010-03, Vol.20 (2), p.230-237
• Main Authors: HUANG, Huazhou, SANG, Shuxun, FANG, Liangcai, LI, Guojun, XU, Hongjie, REN, Bo
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Coal; Coal mines; Fracture mechanics; Huainan coal mining area; Longwall; Mining; Panels; Position (location); pressure relief coalbed methane; surface wells; well location; Wells
• ISSN: 1674-5264; 2212-6066
• DOI: 10.1016/S1674-5264(09)60189-7

Based on engineering tests in the Huainan coal mining area, we studied alternative well location to improve the performance of surface wells for remote pressure relief of coalbed methane in mining areas. The key factors, affecting location and well gas production were analyzed by simulation tests for similar material. The exploitation results indicate that wells located in various positions on panels could achieve relatively better gas production in regions with thin Cenozoic layers, low mining heights and slow rate of longwall advancement, but their periods of gas production lasted less than 230 days, as opposed to wells in regions with thick Cenozoic layers, greater mining heights and fast rates of longwall advancement. Wells near panel margins achieved relatively better gas production and lasted longer than centerline wells. The rules of development of mining fractures in strata over panels control gas production of surface wells. Mining fractures located in areas determined by lines of compaction and the effect of mining are well developed and can be maintained for long periods of time. Placing the well at the end of panels and on the updip return airway side of panels, determined by lines of compaction and the effect of mining, would result in surface wells for remote pressure relief CBM obtaining their longest gas production periods and highest cumulative gas production.