Drop-in immersion probe

A drop-in immersion probe for inserting into molten metal, the probe comprising:

• a generally cylindrical measurement head having an axis, a first axial end which is inwardly tapered toward the axis, and a second axial end;
• a sensor element extending outwardly from the first end of the head generally along the axis;
• a slag cap substantially completely covering and enclosing the entire first end of the head and substantially the entire sensor element, the slag cap having an outer surface at least partially covered with an ablative material that prevents slag from adhering to the slag cap;
• and
• a leadwire extending outwardly from the head and having one end electrically connected to the sensor element.

A combination molten metal bath and drop-in immersion probe for inserting into the molten metal of the bath, the molten metal having a density which is predetermined by the type of molten metal in the bath, the probe comprising:

• a generally cylindrical measurement head having an axis, a first axial end which is inwardly tapered toward the axis and a second axial end, the head being made of a combination of materials having an aggregate density greater than the predetermined density of the molten metal of the molten metal bath;
• a sensor element extending outwardly from the first end of the head generally along the axis;
• a slag cap substantially completely covering and enclosing the entire first end of the head and substantially the entire sensor element, the slag cap being generally smoothly inwardly tapered toward the axis so that the measurement head and the slag cap together are generally projectile-shaped;
• and
• a lead wire extending outwardly from the head and having one end electrically connected to the sensor element.