Abstract: A nozzle unit for use in a nozzle exchange device in a continuous metal casting apparatus comprises a loading opening and guiding means for sliding the nozzle unit through said opening into casting position with respect to the nozzle exchange device, wherein said nozzle unit comprises a nozzle plate made of a refractory material clad in a metal can. In order to prevent said plate from being presented to the loading opening with the wrong orientation, i.e., with the trailing edge first, said plate is provided with at least one lug at or adjacent the trailing edge, said at least one lug disposed such that the loading opening allows engagement of the base of the nozzle plate but not of the at least one lug.

Abstract: A pouring nozzle for a device for nozzle insertion and/or removal has a shape that is adapted so as to better resist the stresses imposed by their use and notably the stresses linked to the maintenance of the nozzle in the device. The pouring nozzle is provided with two exposed bearing faces forming with the pouring channel an angle ? of 20° to 80°. A pushing device applies thrust force to the nozzle. A casting installation embodies the nozzle and the pushing device.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a pouring nozzle (1) for a device for nozzle insertion and/or removal whose shape is adapted so as to better resist the stresses imposed by their use and notably the stresses linked to the maintain of the nozzle in the device. The pouring nozzle is provided with two bearing faces forming with the pouring channel an angle ? of 20° to 80°. The present invention also relates to a pushing device for the pouring nozzle and to a casting installation embodying said nozzle and device.