Abstract: This invention concerns apparatus for selectively connecting an electrode of an electric arc furnace to a source of cooling fluid. The apparatus includes a coupling having passageways extending therethrough for the flow of cooling fluid and comprises at least two separable sections, one such section being connected to receive cooling fluid from the source and the other to convey such cooling fluid to the electrode when coupled to the said one section. Guide means are provided to guide one separable section into close proximity to the other section and to clamp the assembled sections together to connect the electrode to the source of cooling fluid.

Abstract: This invention relates to a method of bundling bars together which reduces the sound levels generated hitherto in conventional bundling pockets. In particular, bars are successively and separately transported laterally from a support table to run down an arm which is reciprocably movable by a motor driven mechanism. Movement of the arm upwards forces a pawl away from the position shown affording access to the bar into the bottom of the pocket, the bar being carried upwardly by the arm against the downward pressure of any bundled bars already in situ. The pawl returns to its position of rest before the arm is retracted and the cycle is repeated.