Abstract: An apparatus for producing a sample is disclosed which has a tilting mechanism (12, 14, 22). The tilting mechanism has a crucible holder (70) releasably coupled thereto and a crucible (100), which is provided with a flange (102), is insertable into the crucible (70) so that the crucible can be tilted by the tilting mechanism. A dish (46) is supported by a support (44) so that the tilting mechanism can tilt the crucible (100) to pour the contents of the crucible into the dish (46). Burners (48 and 50) are provided for heating the contents of the crucible (100) and dish (46).