Abstract: A process for applying a metal coating 11 to a metal strip substrate 2 by preheating the casting surface in a non-oxidizing atmosphere and maintaining a casting surface temperature T.sub.s below the solidus temperature of the metal coating material, passing the casting surface through a melt pool 9 of the metal coating material at a pool temperature at least 25.degree. C. in excess of its melting temperature to deposit a melt layer 21 at a casting temperature T.sub.c, and simultaneously rapidly cooling the metal strip substrate from the back surface to solidify the melt layer to an adherent solid coating, wherein the surface temperature T.sub.s is less than about 20 percent (in .degree.K.) below the casting temperature T.sub.c.The process is particularly useful when coating metal strip with an alloy of limited solubility metals.

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.