Abstract: Metal strip may be directly cast by deposit of a melt layer onto a chill surface. Quality of both the upper and lower surfaces of strip case in this manner may be substantially improved according to the invention by casting on a chill roll having fine, circumferential, surface grooving of a particular geometry.

Abstract: A smooth roll skimmer 36 may be used in the casting of strip 34 by the melt drag process to provide gauge control and a smooth upper surface. Liquid melt 32 is cast on the moving chilled substrate 33 where it solidifies to a strip. The skimmer 36 is positioned above the substrate 33 and at a fixed gap therefrom by convenient means, e.g., by a rolling spacer 37 between the casting surface and the roll skimmer. The roll skimmer is not chilled and is not used to solidify the liquid. It meters and smooths the liquid prior to solidification on the substrate. A parting agent may be used on the roll skimmer to prevent sticking and to reduce heat transfer. A carbonaceous soot from a partially combusted hydrocarbon fuel is a useful parting agent.

Abstract: Metal strip may be cast directly from molten metal in an open tundish onto a chill roll. Strip thickness is controlled by contouring the tundish lip with an offset near the casting wheel. This can be used remedially to offset the natural tendency for the strip to be thicker near the edges, which is undesirable for cold rolling, or it may be used creatively to produce contoured strip.

Abstract: Metal strip 3 may be cast directly from molten metal in an open tundish 2 onto a chill roll 1. Strip thickness is controlled by contouring the tundish lip 14 with an offset 10 near the casting wheel. This can be used remedially to offset the natural tendency for the strip to be thicker near the edges, which is undesirable for cold rolling, or it may be used creatively to produce contoured strip.