Abstract: A method for the continuous casting of metal strands. The liquid metal is simultaneously cast via a moulds into metal strands. The moulds each have a narrow side and a broad side. The moulds have a uniform narrow side so that the metal strands have equal thicknesses after casting. At least one of the moulds used has a broad side whose length differs from the length of the broad side of the other simultaneously used moulds. For each mould used, a sprue stone is provided, which is arranged on a casting table and is provided for receiving the starter strands. The casting of the metal strands includes a mould filling phase with a fixed casting table in which a plurality of starter strands is cast into the associated sprue stones. The casting includes a continuous casting phase in which the casting table is lowered and metal strands are cast.

Abstract: An electroslag refining apparatus includes upper and lower integral crucibles, with the lower crucible having a drain. In situ hot start is effected by depositing in the lower crucible a pre-refined starter. The starter is melted in the lower crucible to form a starter pool, and slag is deposited atop the starter pool for being melted thereby to develop a slag pool thereatop. An ingot electrode is lowered through the upper crucible to immerse a tip thereof into the slag pool. The electrode is powered to effect resistance heating of the slag pool to melt the electrode tip. The slag and starter pools are increased in volume into the upper crucible, with the drain then being opened to effect steady state operation.

Abstract: A system for controlling the flow rate of the stream from an electroslag refining apparatus is taught. The system includes the introduction of unrefined metal into an electroslag refining process in which the unrefined metal is first melted at the upper surface of the refining slag. The molten metal is refined as it passes through the molten slag. The refined metal is collected in a cold hearth apparatus having a skull of refined metal formed on the surface of the cold hearth for protecting the cold hearth from the leaching action of the refined molten metal. A cold finger bottom pour spout is formed at the bottom of the cold hearth to permit dispensing of molten refined metal from the cold hearth.

Abstract: A method, for the conveyance of molten metal from one place to another, in a high-temperature molten metal pool in a metal-melting furnace or out of said molten metal pool, employing an at least partially-inclined elongated conveying conduit and gas feed means for feeding inert gas into the lower end of the conveying conduit and thereby inducing a flow of molten metal in and through said conveying conduit, is disclosed, along with suitable apparatus for carrying out the said method wherein the parts or elements coming into contact with the high-temperature molten metal pool are of a suitable refractory material. According to the present invention, the molten metal is alloyed simultaneously with its conveyance, the same inert gas being employed for both conveying the molten metal and for entrainment of the alloying metal.

Abstract: A molten metal atomization ring structure has an elongated or oval aperture therethrough through which a molten metal stream passes and is broken up into a molten metal spray pattern. The structure may be angularly adjusted about a transverse axis of the aperture at a greater angle without engaging the passing metal stream.