Abstract: A dross pot and sow mould combination for use with a dross press, the combination being suitable for melting furnaces with low sills. The sow mould is connected to the dross pot by a variable length connection which allows the height of the combination to be low when the combination is positioned by the furnace, but larger when the combination is positioned in the dross press.

Abstract: A dross press including a press head and skim box and including a head system comprising pressing means for pressing the dross in said skim box, said press means including means for providing a rocking movement for said press head. Said means comprise two hydraulic rams spaced apart on diametrically opposite sides of the press head.

Abstract: The dross pot comprises a generally conical vessel with a plurality of internal upstanding ribs which divide the dross pot into a plurality of segments and also provide a plurality of draining holes for molten metal.

Abstract: An incremental rotational system for an aluminium dross processing head includes lever means actuated by the head as it rises to rotate the head by a defined amount, no independent drive system being required.

Abstract: A cooling system for an aluminum dross press head includes an air inlet means allowing air to be drawn into the press head and a hollow actuating rod connected to the press head which extracts air from the press bead.

Abstract: A dross press is enclosed within a cabinet which is normally maintained at a negative pressure relative to ambient air pressure. The cabinet is provided with locked doors to prevent egress of explosive gases or pieces of metal. The cabinet is also equipped with safety vents at a high level to prevent destruction of the cabinet by internal explosions. The cabinet also is provided with a fan for extracting fumes therefrom. The fan is connected to a purifier to treat the extracted fumes and air inlet holes in the press head so that the fan may draw air through the head for cooling.