Abstract: A method of and apparatus for degassing molten metal in a vacuum treatment chamber defined by a open topped ladle containing the molten metal and a generally cylindrical refractory lined cover having a closed top and an open bottom positioned on the ladle, with a temporary joint formed therebetween, and a vacuum seal sealing the vacuum treatment chamber from the atmosphere. A vacuum offtake is connected to the cover chamber to apply vacuum to the vacuum treatment chamber, and the molten metal is stirred to produce sufficient turbulence and splashing to produce an increased surface area of molten metal exposed to vacuum to accelerate the degassing rate. The offtake outlet is located at a height above the cover chamber open bottom to substantially prevent splashed metal and slag from being carried into the offtake while permitting aggressive stirring to increase treatment rate.