Abstract: An interconnected precast module refractory leveling assembly for a metallurgical vessel is disclosed. The precast modules of the instant invention compensate for the sloping bottom of a metallurgical vessel. At least one precast module is disposed in each of two partial rings each of which is essentially a mirror image of the other so that the height of the leveling assembly varies substantially uniformly from a high point where the two mirror image portions join to a low point 180 degrees of arc displaced therefrom where the two portions again join. Each of the refractory precast modules has a slight taper in height so that the ends of each precast module are the same height as the juxtaposed ends of the adjoining precast module.

Abstract: A metallurgical vessel having a sloping bottom surface which includes a tapered upper surface terminating at a vertical surface, wherein the vertical surface terminates at a lower tapered surface for forming a pocket block reservoir such that the pocket block reservoir has a volume of less than or equal to about five percent of the total volume of the metallurgical vessel is disclosed. This pocket block reservoir provides an area for the accumulation of residue metal and slag when the metallurgical vessel is discharged, therefore resulting in a significant increase in the quantity of usable pure metal discharged from the metallurgical vessel and thus contributing to improved volumetric efficiency of the vessel. A method for improving the yield efficiency in the production of metal employing this vessel is also provided.

Abstract: A ladle brick leveling set for high temperature molten metal ladles in which specially shaped refractory bricks are disposed in a slightly sloping geometrical configuration so as to compensate for a sloping bottom of a high temperature molten metal ladle. The bricks are disposed in two partial rings each of which is essentially a mirror image of the other so that the height of the leveling set varies substantially uniformly from a high point where the two mirror image portions join to a low point 180 degrees of arc displaced therefrom where the two portions again join. Each of the refractory bricks has a slight taper in height so that the ends of each brick are the same height as the juxtaposed ends of the adjoining bricks.

Abstract: A vessel for very high temperature materials having an upper terminus with an annular surface and at least one refractory abutting the inner surface of the vessel and extending across the annular surface and an embodiment wherein a wedge-shaped member abuts the inner surface of the vessel.

Abstract: Method and geometrical arrangement of refractories within a high temperature vessel. A protuberance near the periphery of the vessel opening is formed on an inner surface and a ring of trapezoidally-shaped refractory brick is positioned such that a sloping surface of each of the trapezoidally-shaped brick is preferably initially in contact with an adjacent surface of the protuberance. When the interior of the vessel is heated and the brick expand, they tend to ride upwardly, with the sloping surfaces urging the brick inwardly thereby increasing lateral friction therebetween, thereby holding them in place and preventing them from moving even when the vessel is tilted or turned upside down.

Abstract: An improved ladle especially adapted for holding molten metals such as steel, the ladle having an interior brick lining a major part thereof which consists essentially of a composition of from about 70 to 95 weight percent of an aluminous material having a minimum alumina content of about 60 weight percent and the balance refractory clay; and for each 100 parts by weight of said composition, from about 5 to 20 weight percent of fine silicon carbide.