Abstract: A level control system controls the level of molten metal in continuous or semi-continuous casting equipment, for example casting equipment for production of roll ingots or billets of aluminum. The casting equipment includes a casting mold with an upper open filling hole for receipt of molten metal from a supply gutter or the like having an outlet above the filling hole. The level of the metal is controlled by a PLC unit as a function of a signal from a radar sensor which detects the level of the metal as the metal supply is controlled by a closing arrangement regulated by an actuator as a function of signals from the PLC unit.

Abstract: A continuous or semi-continuous casting apparatus of the direct chill type for casting metallic materials, particularily recctangular ingots of aluminium, includes a mold which has an open inlet for the filling of molten metal into a mold cavity having an open outlet with a water supply for cooling of the metal. The mold cavity is, at a position spaced from its inlet, provided with a permeable ring for the supply of oil and/or gas, such that a layer of oil and/or gas is formed between the metal and mold wall, whereby the metal is prevented from coming into contact with the mold wall before it solidifies. The surfaces of the ring, with the exception of the side facing the mold cavity, are provided with a sealing agent which prevents the oil and/or gas from escaping through such surfaces.