Abstract: The present invention provides a new and improved method and apparatus for tapping molten metal through the tap hole of a metallurgical vessel. The apparatus utilizes a ladle or a BOF furnace or other metallurgical vessel used for the containment of molten metal. At least one extension drive mechanism is attached to the support structure to position the distal end of a lance within the vessel a predetermined distance above the surface of its contents. The lance is connected to an inert gas source such as Argon. Once the lance is properly positioned, the inert gas is directed onto the surface of the molten metal to prevent the slag from entering the tap hole. An alignment drive can also be attached to the support structure to adjust the position of the extension drive relative to the vessel so that the lance may be properly positioned within the vessel above the tap hole.

Abstract: The apparatus includes a generally cylindrical windscreen member attached to the bottom of a ladle with its axis generally vertical and concentric with a tap hole in the bottom of the ladle through which molten metal flows when released by a valve. An apertured cover plate is telescopically fitted over the windscreen. The cover plate is supported by a wire harness assembly coupled to the underside of the ladle for suspending the cover plate in a hanging relationship beneath the ladle. Lift line apparatus is provided for changing the elevation of the cover plate with respect to the ladle and windscreen in response to changes in the application of tension to the lift line. The cover plate is configured to rest upon, and form a seal with, the upper rim of an ingot mold when the cover plate is lowered while positioned above and aligned with the ingot mold. The windscreen and cover plate are made from a fibrous ceramic low density material to facilitate manual handling.

Abstract: A process for desulfurizing molten steel which includes the formation of a synthetic slag layer, the formation of a cover which occludes the ambient air, and the simultaneous injection of lime and a reactant agent which vaporizes within the molten steel.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for dispensing a fluidized stream of particulate material, particularly a blended mixture of particulate materials which are useful in the desulfurization of molten ferrous metals. Control of the flow rates of the particulate materials are individually and independently controlled and without reliance upon varying the top pressures within the dispenser vessels containing the separate particulate materials.