Application and effect evaluation of segmented hydraulic fracturing weakening technology for hard roof at Shangwan Coal Mine

In recent years, hydraulic fracturing technology has gained attention in the field of hard roof weakening due to its safety, efficiency, and strong controllability. However, existing short-hole hydraulic fracturing techniques have limited influence and effectiveness, especially in high-position rock layers, where source control remains difficult, and the prevention and control effects are hard to guarantee. This study focuses on the 12403 working face of Shangwan Coal Mine in Shendong Mine Area, where the issue of strong mining pressure caused by high-position hard roof is prominent. A segmented directional long-hole hydraulic fracturing technique is applied for roof treatment, and the working principle, scheme design, and practical application effects are thoroughly investigated. Through field results, pressure curves, borehole observation, and mining pressure manifestation analysis, the roof weakening effect is comprehensively evaluated. The results demonstrate that after applying the segmented directional long-hole hydraulic fracturing technique, fractures in the boreholes are significantly developed, the resistance of the working face support is notably reduced, and the hard roof weakening effect is significant, leading to safe and efficient production during the initial mining phase.