MECHANISM FOR SUPPORTING A SUBMERGED POURING TUBE ON A BOTTOM-POUR VESSEL AND METHOD OF REPLACING TUBES

摘要

A mechanism for supporting a submerged pouring tube on a bottom-pour vessel which has a slidable gate closure, and a method of replacing such tubes. The pouring tube is removably suspended from a holder. The holder is removable and replaceable independently of the gate without disturbing other parts. The replacement holder can be inserted into the mechanism from underneath, where it is temporarily supported in horizontal alignment with the old holder. The same mechanism used to move the gates then is operated to move the replacement holder into the position originally occupied by the old holder.