Abstract: In order to determine the contents of solids in a heated elongated slug of thixotropic metal having a longitudinal axis, there is an apparatus comprising an inductive heating coil with electrical winding. Moreover, a sensor includes at least one measuring coil arranged between the heating coil and the slug. This sensor provides an output signal which corresponds to the contents of solids demanded.

Abstract: An injection unit for an injection molding or die-casting machine comprises an injection ram which injects molten material out of an injection sleeve into a mold or die during a filling phase. This injection ram is connected to a drive piston which is movable within a drive cylinder for actuating the injection ram. The whole ram unit, comprising the injection ram and the drive piston, consists of at least two parts releasably connected together. A control device for the movement of the injection ram during the different phases of injection comprises a control valve. A signal transfer arrangement is interconnected between this control valve and the ram unit which is provided with a damping arrangement so that its releasably connected parts are movable relative to each other.