Abstract: A molten metal vacuum-type sampler for taking samples of molten metal from the mold used in an electroslag refining process while opposite voltages are applied across the electrode and the mold, the sampler being a box-shaped hollow body with a silica tube extending downwardly therefrom to be inserted through the slag cover into the molten metal for a few seconds to draw a metal sample into the hollow space of the sampler. The sampler has two insulation boards on opposite sides overlapping the sides to prevent an electrically conductive contact of the sampler with the nearby surfaces of the mold and the electrode. An insulated pipe attached to the top of the sampler forms a handle in its upper aspect and connects conduits and a valve optionally to an argon gas source or a vacuum reservoir.

Abstract: A carbon brick/graphite lined furnace for melting, containing and pouring a special purpose slag composed of about 40 percent CaF.sub.2, 30 percent CaO and 30 percent Al.sub.2 O.sub.3 or a slag composed of about 70 percent CaF.sub.2 and 30 percent Al.sub.2 O.sub.3 which has a cylindrical configuration and a roof composed of high alumina ram refractory with openings therein for receiving heating electrodes composed of graphite, for feeding dry slag into the furnace and for exhausting fumes therefrom. The furnace has a pouring spout and the roof can be raised whereby the furnace is turnable about trunions for discharging the molten slag into an electroslag remelting process mold. Both the interior lining and the next surrounding lining are composed of graphite or carbon bricks or a combination thereof. An expansion layer of insulating material, powder alumina, surrounds the second lining. Following this are two further linings of refractory material.