Abstract: A continuous casting apparatus of a horizontal type is designed for simultaneous casting of a plurality of parallel strands from molten metal discharged from a common tundish. Each strand unit comprises a mold and a refractory conduit which are in contact with each other and in direct association with a clamping mechanism provided with means for adjusting the clamping pressure applied to said mold and conduit to enable closeness of contact therebetween. In combination with a cylinder mechanism intended for clamping conduits to a tundish, said clamping mechanisms provide for a fluid tight connection therebetween at the place of junction thereof.

Abstract: A mandrel for continuous casting of hollow ingots comprising a hollow rod having a collar and a tapered portion thereof introduced into a mold cavity. Mounted on the collar is a protective sleeve axially movable along the rod under the hollow action of a drive mechanism. This makes it possible to eliminate the possibility of bridging formed in the continuously cast ingot in the event of an emergency.

Abstract: The process according to the present invention relates to the production of ferrovanadium alloys. The process comprises melting a charge containing iron and vanadium with a subsequent reduction of iron and vanadium to give a metal melt. In accordance with the present invention, iron and vanadium are reduced substantially completely. The resulting metal melt is poured into a converter and then purged, through the converter bottom, by means of oxygen blowing at a supply rate of oxygen and for a period of time sufficient to produce a slag containing at least 35% by weight of vanadium pentoxide. Thereafter, the metal melt is discharged from the converter, while vanadium and iron are reduced from the resulting slag by the metallothermal method.

Abstract: The withdrawal apparatus comprises a housing through which a cast ingot passes, said housing being mounted for reciprocating movement and for travelling in the direction along which the cast ingot is withdrawn and then back to its initial position. Mounted in the housing are shoes and wedge blocks with rollers arranged therebetween, said rollers being locked into position between the shoes and wedge as the housing travels in the direction of withdrawal of said cast section. The shoes are associated with a rod fitted with a compression spring bearing up against the housing and producing a force acting in the direction opposite to the movement of the housing during the withdrawal operation. When the withdrawal cycle is over, the shoes being spring-biased, release or unlock the rollers.