If the casting automatically comes out of the furnace, it needs human guidance to fill the various molds. The artisan-founder first checks the ladle that contains about 44 lbs (20 kg) of molten metal. He must sometimes withstand an almost 2,553° F (1,400° C) heat. His equipment consisting of a suit, gloves, mask, and visor can seem insufficient. The casting is precious and entirely depends on the founder, whose know-how can only be acquired after long years of learning.