Abstract: A molten metal sampler that is provided with a chamber that can be evacuated and is adapted to hold the vacuum until it is to be placed in operation. When the sampler is contacted by the molten metal, a seal holding the vacuum will disintegrate to permit passage of the molten metal into the evacuated chamber.

Abstract: A receptacle for extracting a sample of molten metal from a furnace while the metal is in the furnace or is being poured from it. The receptacle is formed of a mineral fiber or other suitable material having high heat insulating qualities with a portion of the wall of the receptacle being formed of a material that is a relatively good conductor of heat. The proportion of insulating material to good heat conducting material is such as to obtain the desired control of the solidification of the metal by preventing premature chilling and thereby improving the quality of the sample. The good heat conductor preferably presents a smooth surface to obtain a corresponding smooth surface on the metal sample to facilitate processing it in the metallurgical laboratory.