Abstract: Metallic scrap contaminated with combustibles is melted in a well-type furnace to recover the metallic component with the aid of preheated air and heat generated by burning the fumes generated by the combustible contaminants. The scrap is fed into a depository well which communicates with a main furnace well under a combustion chamber in which burners are operated. Melting heat is transmitted through the molten material within the wells to the incoming scrap within the depository well to maintain its temperature at a level sufficient to melt the scrap and both significantly, heat the air above the depository well and vaporize the combustibles. A negative pressure is maintained above the depository well by a hood covering the depository well thus preventing the escape of fumes but admitting air. The hood communicates with a duct system which incorporates a blower and leads to the burners.