Abstract: A process and apparatus for casting semi-finished metal products in which a molten-metal-proof plunger is disposed at the top of a cavity in a permanent mold. A thin band of metal is attached to the plunger and extends above its top. Inside the metal band on top of the plunger is insulation and on top of that is a barrier to the molten metal. A reservoir of molten metal is created and maintained in a pouring cup over the plunger, and the plunger is caused to descend in the cavity at a controlled rate so that the molten metal enters and fills the cavity above the plunger. Promptly after the plunger reaches the bottom of its stroke, it is reversed to lift the casting and pouring cup at least slightly out of the mold. The shim band, barrier, and insulation are expendable, but the plunger is used again.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the direct casting of steel slabs for subsequent processing instead of casting ingots and then reducing them to slabs, blooms or billets. A flat elongated casting cavity is formed by an assembly of mold components to define a slab. Prior to casting, this mold is inclined at an angle of about 3.degree. to the horizontal with the bottom end of the casting cavity higher than the pouring end. The molten metal is poured through a sprue attached to the mold assembly adjacent the pouring end. The sprue provides a reservoir for molten metal at a level above the bottom end of the casting cavity so that the casting cavity is completely filled during pouring. When pouring is completed, the mold assembly is promptly tilted to an upright position with the pouring end and sprue at the top.