Hydraulic support (Hs) is an important support equipment in coal mining. With the continuous increase in coal mining intensity, stricter technical specifications have been put forward for the effectiveness of Hs. Hs is always in a dynamic coupling state with the surrounding rock. Investigating its dynamic adaptation characteristics in relation to surrounding rock is of great significance for improving its performance. In this work, a numerical analysis model of the ‘support–surrounding rock’ coupling system was established by taking the Hs (type ZZ 17000/33/72D) in the Kouzidong coal mine as an example and using explicit dynamic analysis software Ls-dyna R12. The dynamic response and pressure distribution characteristics of the hydraulic ‘support–surrounding rock’ coupling system under different mining heights and load conditions were investigated. The key vulnerable connection components of the Hs and their critical connection unit instability conditions were identified. These findings provide a theoretical basis for the structural optimization of four-column Hs, which will be beneficial in promoting the improvement of its load-bearing stability.

Hydraulic support is an important supporting equipment in coal mining. With the continuous increase of coal mining intensity, higher requirements have been put forward for the supporting performance of hydraulic support. The hydraulic support always has a dynamic coupling state with the surrounding rock. Investigating its dynamic adaptation characteristics to surrounding rock is of great significance for improving the support performance of hydraulic supports. Therefore, the numerical analysis model of the “hydraulic support-surrounding rock” coupling system is established by taking ZZ 17000 / 33 / 72 D hydraulic support in Kouzidong Coal Mine as an example and using explicit dynamic analysis software Ls-dyna. The dynamic bearing characteristics and pressure distribution law of the four-column hydraulic support-surrounding rock coupling system under different mining heights and different bearing conditions are analyzed. Moreover, key vulnerable connection units and the four-column hydraulic support in-stability under full load conditions are clarified.