Refractory channel connection apparatus in a metallurgical vessel

Abstract

A refractory channel connection apparatus transfers molten metal from a metallurgical vessel into a mold of a continuous casting machine formed by a peripheral groove and a casting wheel and a band covering the open side of the groove. The channel connection apparatus includes a refractory pouring tube having an inlet end connected to the discharge nozzle of the metallurgical vessel, an outlet end and a molten metal passage extending from the inlet end to the outlet end. A refractory nozzle extension is provided at the outlet end of the pouring tube, the nozzle extension having therethrough a flow through passage communicating with the passage of the pouring tube, an outer profile dimensioned to extend tangentially into the mold and to define therewith a gas seal slot, and a lower end extending into the mold to a level above the upper level of metal cast therein. Compressed inert gas is supplied to a chamber including the flow through passage and the space above the upper level of the metal in the ingot mold, thereby pressurizing such chamber and the slot and preventing exterior air from entering the chamber through the slot and contacting the metal in the mold.