Abstract: A melting crucible (1) comprises a collecting volume (6) for liquid material and is equipped with a bottom outlet opening (2). This bottom outlet opening (2) is closable with a movable stopper (3). The bottom outlet opening (2) comprises a specially formed transition region (7), and the front end of stopper (3) is also specially formed. This shaping leads to improved flow conditions and to optimum sealing between stopper (3) and melting crucible (1).