Method of preparing equipment for holding molten high melting, chemically active metal such as titanium, molybdenum or the like in a crucible or mold, including the prevention of formation of impurities and non-metal inclusion in the molten metal, by providing a receptacle of refractory material as cast, extruded or welded part exhibiting microscopic pores, but providing only insignificant leakage at room temperature; at least a portion of the outer wall surface of the receptacle is lined with a protective layer of copper, chromium, nickel or tin for sealing the pores and for covering at least part of the wall surface of the receptacle with that lining to establish a dense integral pore-free layer that is integral with the sealing of the pores, the lining may also provide corrosion proofing if the receptacle is immersed in a corroding fluid (e.g., potossium or sodium or the like). The receptacle is then filled with the metal and sealingly closed at least when the metal is in the liquid state.