Analysis of sensitivity of pressure transcruder based on static and dynamic tests for application in pressure monitoring of the powered roof support

The pressure transducer installed in the hydraulic system play an important role for the correct work of the powered roof support. Currently, in the free market economy there are many manufacturers offering a wide range of such products, however, it is often difficult to find a solution that would meet specific requirements, for example when selecting a pressure transducer for a powered roof support. It is difficult to find an ideal transducer that would meet all the requirements for the correct operation of the support. This becomes even more complicated when new control systems for the roof support are introduced into the market. For this reason, actions are taken to develop an original study dedicated to the powered roof support operating underground. The article presents the results of a new prototype design of a pressure transducer developed for the powered roof support. The device was designed and constructed according to the original idea developed by the Authors. It is intended for pressure monitoring in the load-bearing system of electro-hydraulic control of a powered roof support, especially in the areas characterised by high pressure values. This condition is usually associated with a dynamic load impacting on the support. The paper presents and discusses the structure and functions of the new transducer design as well as its applications under static and dynamic load. The tests under static load were carried out in a specially designed testing station. The dynamic tests were carried out using a drop weight tester. The test results confirmed that the transducer complies with the adopted technical assumptions. The test results were recorded by an innovative measurement system operating in the Lab View environment. The results of transducer sensitivity tests for various types of loads are very positive, and therefore the Authors believe that there is a number of practical applications of the developed solution. The use of this type of transducers should improve the safe operation of the roof support and the economic efficiency of the production process.