Charging-hole
The mouth of a cupola. See CHARGING-DOORS.
Charging-platform (scaffold).--The stage upon which fuel and iron is stored for convenience in charging. Usually the platform is built about 3 feet below the charging-hole and immediately in front of the latter. Position and capacity are two important features. The former should be chosen with reference to possible future developments,--such as additional cupolas, improved facilities for raising material, etc.,--while the latter in all cases should be of strength sufficient to bear with perfect safety all the materials for one day's heat, and ample in area to do this without in any sense interfering with the charging operations. See CUPOLA; CHARGING THE COMMON CUPOLA.