Abstract: To solve the supporting problem of rare extremely loose gravel immediate roof in Shajihai mining area, Xinjiang, the gravel layer characteristics, including particle size distribution, mineral composition, compressive strength, etc., were analyzed in this paper. Combined with the field engineering practice, a new composite support system with no legs was proposed, and the reasonable support parameters were determined through numerical simulation and theoretical analysis. Field simulation test has verified the reliability of this support system, which was applied successfully in the engineering field, and can provide effective practice experience for roadway support in similar geological conditions．

Key words: loose gravel layer, characteristic analysis, shield with no legs, composite support system