Abstract: A casting nozzle joint structure capable of easily positioning and jointing a nozzle without any holder for fixing and supporting a continuous casting nozzle therethrough. The joint structure comprises fitting mechanism formed in and on the mating faces of the continuous casting nozzle and the pressure clamper. The fitting mechanism includes a convex portion and a concave portion formed in and on the mating faces of the continuous casting nozzle and the pressure clamper so that they fit one another. The concave or convex portion formed in the mating face of the continuous casting nozzle is fitted on or in the convex or concave portion formed in the mating face of the pressure clamper, and this pressure clamper clamps the fitted engagement. Thus, the nozzles can have their outlet bores positioned, and the submerged entry shroud can have its discharge port oriented.

Abstract: A sliding nozzle apparatus for a molten metal holding vessel including a fixed nozzle member and a fixed plate therefor which are supported by an upper or fixed bracket secured to the vessel, and a movable nozzle member and a slidable plate therefor which are supported by a lower or movable bracket having one edge hinged to the upper bracket, while its opposite edge remote from its hinged connection to the upper bracket is removably connectable to the upper bracket to bring the slidable plate into contact with the fixed plate. A first set of coil springs are located adjacent to the edge of the lower bracket at which it is hinged to the upper bracket, and a second set of coil springs are located adjacent to the opposite edge of the lower bracket. The first set of coil springs are deflected to a greater degree than the second set of coil springs, or are, in other words, preloaded differently from the second set of springs.