| 摘要 |
Molten metal passes downwardly through a slag layer (5) and resolidifies as an ingot (9) thereunder. The slag is kept molten by passing electrical current through the slag layer (5) and between a first electrode (1) and a second electrode (3) which has liquid or gas cooling means as an integral part thereof. Current is passed between the electrodes through at least one electrically conductive member (7) interposed between said slag (5) and the second electrode (3). The electrically conductive member (7) has a melting temperature in excess of the bulk temperature of the slag and a portion of its surface of in contact with the slag has a temperature above the freezing temperature of the slag (5). The first electrode (1) may be a consumable electrode, as shown which is partially immersed in the slag (5) such that it gradually melts and drops of metal move downwardly therefrom. The second electrode (3) is generally the crucible (3), as shown but may be a non-consumable electrode which is partially immersed in the slag (5). <IMAGE> |
