Magnesium melt is produced in steel crucibles. The main application is found in pressure die-casting foundries. The furnaces can be heated by induction resistance or by fuels. In recycling operations with annual throughputs of > approx. 3,000 t/p.a. and scrap dimensions of approx. 500x200x50, the inductively-heated steel crucible furnace manufactured by ABB is used successfully. These furnaces are available with capacities of approx.800 kg with 400 kW and 1,500 kg with 560 kW. Ceramically-lined magnesium furnaces have not proven popular for recycling purposes due to the high level of dross. Ceramically-lined magnesium furnaces of 7 and 10 t capacity are operated in the USA, although these are operated with 1/3 sump and charged pigs. The pigs come from Russian and Chinese production, and contain impurities which are then cleaned out in these furnaces. The furnaces have to remain in operation continuously, since the tamping compound must not be allowed to cool off.
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