Abstract: A tap spout, particularly for allowing molten metal to be discharged from oxygen-steel converters, includes a replaceable unit including a tubular wear lining and a jointing layer secured thereto. An inner lining of the tap spout may thus be repaired with relatively simple maintenance work by removing the inner lining and subsequently inserting the replaceable unit into an outer lining of the tap spout to form a new inner lining of the tap spout. The replaceable unit is adapted to facilitate either a press fit, and in particular, a fit ensured by axial compression of the jointing layer, or an expansion fit with the outer lining to secure the replaceable unit therein.

Abstract: An apparatus for replaceably connecting a casting tube to a closable pouring spout of a tundish includes a gimbal device for supporting the casting tube and a double-arm lever including a first arm supporting the gimbal device and a second arm carrying a counterweight. The lever is supported about an axis such that the counterweight pivots the lever about the axis and causes the first arm and the gimbal device to press the casting tube against the mouth of the pouring spout. Supports are fixed to the tundish, a pin member defines the axis, and a mounting structure moves the pin member between an operative position pivotally supporting the lever on the supports and an inoperative position where the lever is released from the supports.

Abstract: Method of lining a steel-making furnace which comprises lining the bottom area of the furnace with bricks to form a first lining, lining at least a portion of the wall area of the furnace with bricks and/or a water cooling box to form a second lining, lining the first lining and a lower portion of the second lining with a first refractory material, applying a second refractory material to an upper portion of the second lining above the lower portion before heating the furnace, and then heating the second refractory material to cause hardening thereof. The second refractory material comprises magnesium oxide, green chromium oxide, clay, a phosphate, a bisulfate and water. The use of this composition for the second refractory material results in a substantial increase in the durability of the furnace lining.

Abstract: A molten iron containing vessel includes a refractory fireproof inner lining of dolomite bricks and bauxite bricks. The lining includes magnesia bricks positioned between the dolomite and bauxite bricks, thereby avoiding contact reactions between the dolomite and bauxite. A gas permeable brick member extends through an end portion of the vessel for injecting a gas into the molten iron contained therein.