Abstract: A ladle shroud is fixed to a coupling device for reversibly coupling an inlet orifice of said ladle shroud to a collector nozzle fixed to the outside of a bottom floor of a ladle in a metal casting installation, by means of at least a first and second elongated latch pivotally mounted on a hinge, such that the latch can pivot from a fixing position to an idle position. The idle position of the latches allows the engagement of the ladle shroud into its casting configuration about the collector nozzle, and the fixing position of the latches engages catches provided on said latches into matching fasteners located on the gate frame holding the collector nozzle.

Abstract: Crucible compositions and methods of using the crucible compositions to melt titanium and titanium alloys. More specifically, crucible compositions having extrinsic facecoats comprising a rare earth oxide that are effective for melting titanium and titanium alloys for use in casting titanium-containing articles. Further embodiments are titanium-containing articles made from the titanium and titanium alloys melted in the crucible compositions. Another embodiment is a crucible curing device and methods of use thereof.