Compressive rod assembly for molten metal containment structure

A compressive rod assembly for applying force to a refractory vessel positioned within an outer metal casing, wherein at least a portion of the compressive rod assembly is positioned between the refractory vessel and the outer metal casing and wherein the assembly comprises:

• a rigid elongated rod having first and second opposed ends,
• a threaded bolt having first and second opposed ends, and
• a compressive structure positioned between the first opposed end of said elongated rod and the first opposed end of the bolt,
• wherein said elongated rod and said bolt are separate components such that force applied by said bolt to the elongated rod passes through said compressive structure which allows limited longitudinal movements of said elongated rod to be accommodated by said compressive structure without requiring corresponding longitudinal movements of said bolt,
• wherein said rigid elongated rod comprises a refractory heat insulating material adjacent said second opposed end of the rod.