Abstract: An apparatus and process are provided for supporting a billet inside an induction coil while the billet is being heated by electric induction. Two or more rails of a heat resistant ceramic material provide a curvilinear surface on which the billet can slide into and out of the coil and sit on during the heating process. Rail position adjustment means may be provided for moving the rails to accommodate billets of various sizes.

Abstract: An arrangement for mounting and insulating strip sheet heating elements in the heated interior of vaccum furnaces comprises a plurality of rods secured at one end to a support liner and supporting at their other ends a heating element assembly which includes a heating element, insulators, retaining or locating pins and a reinforcing member for the heating element. The arrangement may also include means for transferring quenching gases to the interior working space of vacuum furnaces, consisting of an integral manifold or plenum support ring assembly and a plurality of locked in tubes which route the gases directly into the working section of the furnace.