Abstract: Alkaline silicates such as sodium metasilicate are prepared by a method that prevents unreacted batch ingredients to come in contact with furnace walls. The method also prevents any molten material from contacting the floor of the furnace. The raw materials and unreacted melt are confined to the central portion of the furnace by maintaining vigorous bubbling around the periphery of the melting furnace. The vigorous bubbling action prevents migration of unreacted raw material to the furnace walls. The bubbling eminates from means that extend up from the furnace floor and therefore, the portion of the material in the lower part of the furnace bed is in the solid state.