Abstract:Some factors affecting the shape,the surface flow and the stability of meniscus of melt were investigated.Experimental results showed that under certain conditions the height and profile of melt meniscus can be changed by adjusting the weight of liquid metal column and an ideal shape of melt meniscus with vertical side can be obtained.A decrease in diameter and an increase in height of meniscus also can be achieved by increasing the induction power.The insertion of screen apparently improved the meniscus shape,resulting in a better shape with a near vertical periphery and a flat top,restrained the surface flow,and therefore made the meniscus be stable.A restraint magnetic field almost eliminated the surface flow but gave no effect on the meniscus shape.

Key words: liquid metal meniscus; electromagnetic cast; unidirectional solidification