Which graphite is used for crucibles and ingot molds?

Depending on metal, temperature, and thermal cycle we recommend vibro-molded, molded, or isostatic grades. We supply crucibles, ingot molds, sintering molds, and pouring spouts as catalog or custom parts.

What is the advantage of a graphite launder over a refractory one?

The metal does not wet it, so no build-up or crusts form that later break loose into the mould. It also tolerates the start-up thermal shock better, when the first stream falls onto a cold channel.

How does a graphite launder wear?

Mainly by erosion in the highest-velocity zones and at changes of direction, and by oxidation of the face exposed to hot air. The channel profile can be designed to spread the flow and delay that localized wear.

Are launders made to custom geometry?

Yes. Section, slope, bend radii, pouring lips, and seatings are machined to drawing or from the existing channel.

Graphite pouring channels and spouts for foundry use

Metallurgical applications

Foundry pouring spouts

They direct the flow of molten metal into molds, preventing spills and losses.

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Molten metal conveyance element

Also known as: Graphite launders for molten metal · Graphite pouring spouts · Casting troughs · Graphite pouring lips

[ Technical summary ]

Launders, spouts, and troughs carry molten metal from the furnace to the mould or machine. The part is in permanent contact with moving metal, so its wear responds to flow erosion rather than to static temperature. Graphite withstands the thermal shock of the first stream against a cold channel, is not wetted by non-ferrous metals — which avoids build-up and carry-over — and machines to the section and slope each installation requires.

[ Problem it solves ]

Convey molten metal without it sticking to the wall or picking up oxides from the channel itself, and without the first stream against the cold channel cracking it.

Processes

Liquid-metal conduction
Casting distribution

Operating conditions

High temperature

When it is suitable

Metal is transferred in an open channel between furnace and mould
Conventional refractories build up metal or shed particles
The channel cools between casts and suffers thermal shock
The channel section or slope is specific to the installation

When it may not be suitable

The contacting metal readily dissolves carbon and the alloy cannot tolerate it
The part sits in air at high temperature between casts without protection
The channel must take mechanical impact or cleaning with hard tools

Process challenges

Flow erosion
Thermal leaks
Metal contamination

Advantages

Thermal shock resistance
Machined geometries
Lower sticking than many refractories

Limitations

Erosion wear
Grade selection by metal
Service life depends on cycles

[ Critical selection variables ]

These variables define the grade and the geometry. Actual values are confirmed against the grade datasheet.

Molten metal or alloy in contactDecisive
Flow rate and flow regimeDecisive
Operating temperatureDecisive
Thermal shock severityDecisive
Geometry and tolerancesRelevant
Thermal and duty cyclingRelevant
Bath or flux chemistryRelevant

[ Required material properties ]

Properties that guide selection. Numerical values come from each grade's datasheet.

Critical properties

Thermal shock resistance
Non-wetting by molten metal
Wear resistance
Thermal conductivity

Secondary properties

Chemical resistance
Machinability
Bulk density

[ Related ]

[ Frequently asked questions ]

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Technical content reviewed by ESGRAF — Last reviewed: September 8, 2026

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