steam explosions can be prevented or mitigated during a metal casting process by the placement of a perforated flooring system in the casting pit . an upward flow of compressed gas through this perforated flooring system is introduced during the casting process to produce a buffer layer between any spilled molten metal and the cooling water in the reservoir . this buffer layer provides a hydrodynamic layer which acts to prevent or mitigate steam explosions resulting from hot , molten metal being spilled into or onto the cooling water .