Abstract: An immersion probe includes an elongated probe body having an axis, an external surface and a first end for immersion into a bath of molten metal, the molten metal bath having a slag layer on the upper surface thereof. The first end of the probe body includes a device for detecting a characteristic of the molten metal. The immersion probe further includes a chill member movably supported by and at least partially surrounding a portion of the external surface of the probe body. The chill member is freely axially movable with respect to the probe body. A buoyancy member engages the chill member. The buoyancy member has a density such that upon immersion of the first end of the probe into the molten metal bath the chill member moves axially with respect to the probe body so that the chill member is positioned within the slag layer for chilling and collecting a slag sample. One or more stop members may be provided on the probe body for limiting movement of the chill member.

Abstract: A shock absorbing immersion probe comprises a probe body having a first end portion for immersion into a molten metal bath, a second end portion coupleable to support means and means for detecting characteristics of a molten metal, where shock absorbing means are positioned proximate the first end of the probe body for absorbing impact loads imposed upon the first end portion of the probe. A polymer foam shock absorber for immersion probes is also disclosed, as well as methods for making the same.

Abstract: A temperature sensing device suitable for repeated immersions into a molten metal bath. The invention including a protective refractory sleeve which encases a portion of a generally cylindrical cardboard support tube. Within the suppprt tube is mounted a temperature sensing unit including a body portion, which is positioned within the end of the support tube, and a thermocouple extension portion, which includes a U-shaped quartz tube and which extends through and projects away from the end of the protection sleeve. The cardboard support tube is wrapped with a reflective foil substantially over its end and its entire peripheral surface. The U-shaped quartz tube is provided with an alumina coating to prevent degradation of the quartz material during repeated immersions into the molten metal bath. The combination increasing the number of useful immersions of the sensing unit prior to failure.

Abstract: A preformed refractory sleeve for a temperature sensing device suitable for repeated immersions into molten metal is generally cylindrical in shape. An inwardly directed shoulder is spaced from the immersion end of the sleeve against which shoulder a support tube supporting the temperature sensor may abut and seal. The bore of the sleeve includes a truncated cone-shaped recess between the shoulder and the immersion end of the sleeve through which the bight of the temperature sensor extends. The truncated cone-shaped recess is filled with refractory cement to positively secure the temperature sensor to the sleeve and insulate the temperature sensor. Longitudinal ribs may extend into the bore of the cylindrical sleeve at the end of the sleeve opposite the truncated cone-shaped bore to center the support tube and form insulating air gaps between the sleeve and support tube.

Abstract: Molten metal is sampled by immersing a lance into a bath. The lance includes a chamber having a deoxidant. Two sets of lances are disclosed with the amount of deoxidant being different in each set. One set of lances is used during in-blow operation and the other is used during blow-interrupt operation.

Abstract: A molten metal sample cup is provided with a temperature sensor to detect phase change in molten metal within the cup as the sample solidifies. A blob of material which promotes the formation of carbides is disposed within the cup. The exposed surface of the blob is limited by locating the blob within a recess in a bottom wall of a cavity so that the exposed surface of the blob is a predetermined uniform amount which is less than the total surface of the blob.

Abstract: The composite tube has an inner core of a first material, an intermediate zone of a second material surrounding said core, and an outer wrap surrounding and confining said intermediate zone. The intermediate zone is spirally wound layers of ceramic paper bonded together. The tube is light in weight and has a very low thermal conductivity.