Coal and Gas Outburst Risk Assessment Using Cluster Analysis Method

Mining has historically been known as a high-risk industry. Coal and gas outbursts are one of the most significant accidents that occur in underground coal mines. Despite many years of research, the resources and mechanisms of this phenomenon are not well understood. Thus, it is difficult to forecast and control these events. As the mining depth and density increase, initial gas pressure and gas content of coal seams continue to increase, and the risk of explosion increases. Hence, explosion-prone areas expand gradually. As a result, a dynamic phenomenon has emerged in areas where there is no danger of outbursts. The risk of outbursts becomes more and more serious in coal mines. A coal outburst risk assessment includes evaluating the risk factors to what degree are present and then determining the risk areas of the mine. In this study, the Cluster Analysis method was implemented to identify the risk level of coal seams based on the evaluation of the outburst risk factors for an underground coal mine. Coal and gas outbursts occurring in Zonguldak hard coal basin were divided into two clusters, Cluster A and Cluster B. Coal seams in Cluster A were determined riskier than Cluster B coal seams.