Abstract: A method and device are described for preventing the atmospheric contamination of molten metal during the transfer thereof from one vessel to another. The device includes a first metal ring releasably connected to a molten metal receiving vessel and second metal ring connected to a vessel containing the molten metal to be transferred. A viewing port is provided to allow observation of the molten metal as it is being transferred. A ceramic fiber blanket which encloses the molten metal stream as it is being transferred interconnects the two rings. During operation, an opening of the molten metal containing vessel attached to the second ring and the ceramic fiber blanket are aligned concentrically above the opening of the receiving vessel and the first ring. In the preferred embodiment, the ceramic fiber blanket is then mated to the first metal ring to form an enclosure around the path defined between the molten metal containing vessel and the receiving vessel for the transfer of molten metal therebetween.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for controlling the atmosphere above the bath of an electroslag remelting furnace, including sealing the atmosphere of the furnace directly above the crucible by employing a shell secured to the crucible and a shroud secured between the shell and the movable furnace ram to encapsulate the atmosphere, and analyzing the oxygen content of the atmosphere and controlling the amount of oxygen therein by introducing an inert gas in the atmosphere.