In a metal filled sleeve connection, the crucible contains filler metal that is ignited to become molten and flows into the sleeve to fill the space. What equipment is attached to the side of the sleeve to hold the crucible?

• A. A pouring basin aligned with a tap hole
• B. A hydraulic jack
• C. A clamp
• D. A leveling instrument

Answer: (A)

The key idea is providing a controlled path for the molten filler metal from the crucible into the sleeve. A pouring basin attached to the side of the sleeve is designed as a receptacle and guide that sits in line with the tap hole. As the filler metal is heated to a molten state, it flows from the crucible into the pouring basin and then through the tap hole into the sleeve, ensuring the metal fills the space accurately and with minimal splatter or misalignment. This setup also helps keep the flow steady and directs the metal to the correct location as the sleeve fills.

The other equipment doesn’t serve this purpose: a hydraulic jack applies force, not a molten-metal delivery path; a clamp might hold parts or tools but doesn’t provide the directed flow into the sleeve; a leveling instrument is used for alignment checks, not for guiding molten metal into the tap hole.