Abstract: Aiming at the problem of support load determination for fully mechanized caving face, this paper introduces the current support load estimation method in domestic and foreign, and analyzes the influencing factors from the aspects of geology and engineering, and it points out the problems of estimation method. It concludes that the hydraulic support working resistance is determined according to different geological conditions. Using energy method, fully considering the effect of dynamic load and top coal characteristics, combined with numerical simulation and similarity simulation assisted the theory research.