A sliding nozzle apparatus includes a fixed metal frame, and a sliding metal frame which is provided openable-closable and slidable with respect to the fixed metal frame. When the sliding metal frame is opened, the sliding nozzle apparatus is erected such that a sliding direction of the sliding metal frame is oriented in a vertical direction. The fixed metal frame is provided with a fall prevention member, and the sliding metal frame is provided with an engagement member. The fall prevention member has a catching surface for catching the engagement member when the sliding metal frame is opened, in the uppermost position where the sliding metal frame is moved to the uppermost side in a state in which the sliding nozzle apparatus is erected such that the sliding direction of the sliding metal frame is oriented in the vertical direction.

A sliding nozzle apparatus includes a fixed metal frame, and a sliding metal frame which is provided openable-closable and slidable with respect to the fixed metal frame. When the sliding metal frame is opened, the sliding nozzle apparatus is erected such that a sliding direction of the sliding metal frame is oriented in a vertical direction. The fixed metal frame is provided with a fall prevention member, and the sliding metal frame is provided with an engagement member. The fall prevention member has a catching surface for catching the engagement member when the sliding metal frame is opened, in the uppermost position where the sliding metal frame is moved to the uppermost side in a state in which the sliding nozzle apparatus is erected such that the sliding direction of the sliding metal frame is oriented in the vertical direction.

The invention relates to a refractory plate for use in a slide gate valve for controlling a flow of molten metal, a method for the production of the refractory plate, a use of the refractory plate, a slide gate valve for controlling a flow of molten metal and vessel for containing molten metal.