Abstract: This invention is a simple, safe, and inexpensive beam structure for tractor forward mounting of a blade (24). A pivot plate (11) is mounted at the tractor lower mid-section. Parallel beams (12) are positioned through the pivot plate (11) and extend beyond the tractor front and rear. The aft ends of beams (12) are attached to the tractor 2 or 3 point rear hydraulic lift arms (26). The forward ends of the beams (12) are the blade primary attachment points. A counterweight (13) attached rearward will raise the blade (24) when the tractor 2 or 3 point rear hydraulic lift arms (26) are lowered. The blade (24) is lowered by raising the 2 and 3 point rear hydraulic lift arms (26), thereby, giving effective vertical control of the front mounted blade.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for strapping ingot moulds by forcing roughly pre-formed strap sections into pressure contact around the mark of the mould which is to be strapped, and welding the joints between the sections to form a complete strap. The apparatus includes the frame, with two generally C-shaped portions hinged together to form a bar which can be closed around a mould, the frame carrying hydraulic rams at spaced intervals for pressing the strap sections against the mould.