Abstract: The present casting machine and the underlying caterpillar-mold casting method distinguish themselves by the fact that the blocks (4) forming the mold circulate caterpillar-like around one of the casting caterpillars (2;3) and are subdivided in the lateral direction into individual elements that are held together, the elements, which rest on a transport means, being held on the transport means at least over a part of the circumference of the caterpillar by means of stationary magnets.

Abstract: A major deformation machine having two working roller systems with parallel axes, for example a planetary mill, is used for rolling ingots into metal strip. An ingot is forced into this major deformation machine by means of a conveyor mechanism. As the trailing end of the ingot nears the major deformation machine the conveyor mechanism is stopped and the spacing between the axes of the working roller systems is reduced by means of an adjusting mechanism, in order to roll the part of the work in the roller contact section of the machine until separation takes place. The so-separated rear end section of the ingot is then drawn back out of the machine. These operations can be controlled automatically by a control device including a detector operable by the end of the ingot approaching the major deformation machine.