Abstract: A quick-release retainer bracket for mounting objects to a platform, has a base plate enclosing a pocket in a center thereof, and a pair of retainer plates positionable on top of said base plate on opposed sides thereof, the base plate and retainer plates mountable on a platform with the retainer plates moveable over the base plate from a retracted position in which the retainer plates are partially overlapping a pocket to an extended region in which the retainer plates do not overlap the pocket.

Abstract: A quick-release retainer bracket for mounting objects to a platform, has a base plate enclosing a pocket in a center thereof, and a pair of retainer plates positionable on top of said base plate on opposed sides thereof, the base plate and retainer plates mountable on a platform with the retainer plates moveable over the base plate from a retracted position in which the retainer plates are partially overlapping a pocket to an extended region in which the retainer plates do not overlap the pocket.

Abstract: A molten metal sampler that is provided with a chamber that can be evacuated and is adapted to hold the vacuum until it is to be placed in operation. When the sampler is contacted by the molten metal, a seal holding the vacuum will disintegrate to permit passage of the molten metal into the evacuated chamber.

Abstract: A receptacle for extracting a sample of molten metal from a furnace while the metal is in the furnace or is being poured from it. The receptacle is formed of a mineral fiber or other suitable material having high heat insulating qualities with a portion of the wall of the receptacle being formed of a material that is a relatively good conductor of heat. The proportion of insulating material to good heat conducting material is such as to obtain the desired control of the solidification of the metal by preventing premature chilling and thereby improving the quality of the sample. The good heat conductor preferably presents a smooth surface to obtain a corresponding smooth surface on the metal sample to facilitate processing it in the metallurgical laboratory.