Crucible Furnaces are one of the simplest types of melting unit used in the foundry. The furnaces use a refractory crucible which contains the metal charge. The charge is heated via conduction of heat through the walls of the crucible. The heating fuel is typically oil, gas or electricity. Crucible melting is commonly used where small batches of low melting point alloy are required. The capital outlay of these furnaces makes them attractive to small non-ferrous foundries.