Abstract: The improved method of melting a metal, especially cast iron, in a cokeless cupola furnace includes the step of injecting at least one case product quality improving and stabilizing substance into a space between the grate and the burners. The quality improving and stabilizing substance can be refining substance and a nuclear-enriching substance of the type used in code-fired cupola furnaces including nitrogen-containing substances such as ammonia and hydrazine and halogen-containing substances. A suitable apparatus for performing the improved process is also described having a downwardly direct lance for injection of the quality improving and stabilizing substance with an upwardly-directed mouth portion for forming an upwardly directed jet inserted through a furnace wall in a throughgoing guideway.