Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for the enhanced production of iron sponge in an induction crucible furnace by reversing the usual flow pattern produced. Upwardly flowing magnetic fields are induced at the furnace walls, causing an upwarding flow of the furnace contents at the walls thereof. This upward flow induces, in turn, a downward flow centrally of the furnace. Thus, ores introduced adjacent the top surface of the furnace contents are impacted immediately by a rapidly moving radial flow pattern toward the furnace axis and drawn immediately downward into the central portions of the furnace. The initial impact causes immediate breakup of the ore to be smelted and the immediate exposure to the central portions of furnace contents causes enhanced comingling with the heated iron bath for enhanced reduction.