Abstract: An arrangement for charging an electric arc furnace with a relatively free-flowing charge of sponge iron or other iron-containing particles distributes the charge of particles within the furnace through a first chute before a melting stage of an electric arc steelmaking operation is begun, and then continuously through a second chute which extends through the roof of the furnace during the melting stage. The first chute extends from a hopper containing the sponge iron and can be moved when the roof is open to feed the charge into the furnace. A distributor cone at the lower end of this chute distributes the sponge iron in a predetermined pattern. A second chute affixed to the furnace roof and in communication therethrough with the interior of the furnace permits continuous charging of the furnace during operation.