Abstract: Apparatus for constraining the flow of molten metal from a tundish to a mould along the inner periphery of a tube mounted between them. A vertically movable stopper rod is seated at its lower end in a nozzle at the entrance to the tube the end being so designed as to cause an annular discharge of metal into the tube upon the stopper rod lifting from its seating, gas being injected through the stopper whereby to generate a gaseous void within the interior of the tube to promote the maintenance of the metal flow path of along the length of the inner periphery of the tube.

Abstract: This invention relates to a block and bleed valve system comprising a chamber 2 having first and second fluid passage openings 6,7 provided with first and second valves 10,11, and connected in use of the system to respective pipe sections 26,27 from which the chamber 2 is isolatable in use by closure of said first and second valves 10,11. The chamber 2 also has a drain opening 9 provided with a drain valve 15; and a spray means 18 having a spray head 21 formed and disposed in the chamber 2 for spraying substantially all the interior surfaces of the chamber 2 with cleaning fluid.