BigPatents India

The invention provides an apparatus for controlling the flow of material, such as molten metal, from a container, the apparatus comprising a first closing element (202) for the outlet from the container, a support system (204) for the first element, an actuator system for moving the support system and first element, a fixed support frame (250) for mounting the support system and first element, and a bearing system between the fixed support frame and the support system to facilitate movement of the support system relative to the fixed support frame, wherein the bearing system comprises one or more contact surfaces (208, 214) between a component of the support framework (250) and a component of the support system, at least one of the components (264) providing a contacting surface capable of rotation. (FIG. 1)