Pressurized squeeze casting apparatus and method and low pressure furnace for use therewith

摘要

A pressurized squeeze casting apparatus and method for casting articles includes densifying means for mechanically applying force to a die assembly to compress and densify the molten metal material into a solid article having a near net shape. A shutoff member is provided to seal the interior cavity at the juncture of the runner and the cavity after the cavity is filled with molten metallic material and prior to densification. A low pressure furnace provides a supply of molten metallic material. The outlet from the furnace is biased into engagement with the runner by the gas pressure in the low pressure furnace to ensure a fluid tight connection between the furnace and the runner.