Abstract: This invention relates to the construction and use of plasma arc furnaces; more particularly it relates to a transferred arc mode of operation in such furnaces. In more detail a plasma arc furnace according to this invention comprises at least two stationary plasma torches positioned at or near the upper end of a furnace chamber and directed downwardly at an inclined angle towards an electrically conducting vessel for containing melt produced in the furnace and at least one electrical return anode connection made to said vessel at a point above the point of coalescence of the arcs produced, in use, by the torches.