Abstract: A refractory sliding gate valve plate has a planar upper surface and a planar lower surface parallel to the planar upper surface. A connecting outer surface connects the upper surface to the lower surface, and a pouring channel fluidly connects the upper surface to the lower surface. Specified ratios of length between (a) specified longitudinal segments extending from the axis of symmetry of the pouring channel to the perimeter on the upper surface and the lower surface of the plate, respectively, and also between (b) specified latitudinal segments extending from the axis of symmetry of the pouring channel to the perimeter on the upper surface and the lower surface of the plate, respectively, increase the uniformity of thrust force applied to the plates and the contact area between the upper surfaces of two such plates within a valve.

Abstract: A device for measuring the temperature of a bath of metal contains a sleeve and an optical head. The sleeve and optical head may be joined together or taken apart by rotation with respect to each other. The sleeve is made at least partially of a refractory material. A method for measuring the temperature of a bath of molten metal makes use of the inventive device. By virtue of this device, mounting and removal is rendered easier while keeping the measuring zone centered and decreasing measurement disturbances caused by the emission of gas from the sleeve.

Abstract: The invention concerns a valve assembly, an admission path for a pouring nozzle adjacent to the outlet of the valve, and spring thrusters for maintaining this nozzle in operating position on the admission path and for receiving another nozzle in ready position. The device also comprises a traverser with offset jack, provided with an arm for driving the nozzles, while being supported by the cam track. The invention is characterized in that the jack body is provided at the top with a sensor co-operating with this cam track, and also supports the driving arm, while the jack rod is fixed to the frame, thereby reducing the space requirement of the device.