STARTER BLOCK FOR CONTINUOUS CASTING

This invention relates to an improved bottom block for vertical DC and EM casting large ingots and billets, particularly ingots having generally rectangularly shaped cross sections which are rolled into sheet and plate. The improved bottom block stably supports the ingot or billet in its downward descent during casting so that the ingot or billet does not move on the bottom block by leaning off center or rocking back and forth. In accordance with the invention, a plurality of drain holes in the bottom block, which are adapted to remove coolant which collects on the top surface of the bottom block, are provided with fan shaped recesses which form appendages on the butt of the ingot or billet. These ingot or billet appendages ride up the lower inclined surfaces of the recesses when the ingot or billet butt shrinks and curls, thereby stabilizing the ingot or billet.