Abstract: A method for producing metallic ingots or strands, especially from steel and Ni and Co based alloys, by melting self-consuming electrodes in an electroconductive slag bath, using an alternating current or a direct current in a short water-cooled mold which opens downwards, via which an electric contact can be produced for the slag bath. The supplied melt current is passed via the consumable electrode, the bottom plate, the remelt ingot and the melting bath, and optionally at least one electroconductive element of the mold, to the slag bath. The current distribution can be regulated in a controlled manner and the return circuit of the melt current passes back via at least one other electroconductive element of the mold, which is electrically isolated in relation to a first part of the mold which forms the remelt ingot. The proportion of the entire melt current supplied via the bottom plate is selected between 0 and 100%.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for producing metallic ingots or strands, especially from steel and Ni and Co based alloys, by melting self-consuming electrodes in an electroconductive slag bath, using an alternating current or a direct current in a short water-cooled mould which opens downwards, via which an electric contact can be produced for the slag bath. The supplied melt current is passed via the consumable electrode, the bottom plate, the remelt ingot and the melting bath, and optionally at least one electroconductive element of the mould, to the slag bath. The current distribution can be regulated in a controlled manner and the return circuit of the melt current passes back via at least one other electroconductive element of the mould, which is electrically isolated in relation to a first part of the mould which forms the remelt ingot. The proportion of the entire melt current supplied via the bottom plate is selected between 0 and 100%.