Abstract: A method of inspecting an artifact on a machine tool includes: scanning a probe mounted on the machine tool along the surface of the artifact to be inspected. The method involves supplying a flow of fluid at least at the point of interaction between the probe and the artifact during the scanning.

Abstract: A method of inspecting an artefact on a machine tool includes: scanning a probe mounted on the machine tool along the surface of the artefact to be inspected. The method involves supplying a flow of fluid at least at the point of interaction between the probe and the artefact during the scanning.

Abstract: A vessel (10) for a feedstock that is to be heated using radio frequency electromagnetic radiation (EMR), the vessel being adapted for rotation about an axis that passes through the vessel and having an inlet aperture through which the feedstock may be introduced into the vessel and a wall (16) for retaining the feedstock in the vessel, wherein the wall (16) has at least one vent for venting gases released by the feedstock, the at least one vent being so formed that rotation of the vessel about the axis prevents the feedstock from entering the vent, thereby retaining the feedstock in the vessel. Also heating apparatus (50) comprising such a vessel (10), means (54) for introducing a feedstock into the vessel, means (56, 62, 64, 66) for discharging the feedstock from the vessel, a source (58, 80) of EMR and drive means (75, 200, 202) operable to rotate the vessel (10) about an axis that passes through the vessel.