Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A die assembly for squeeze casting an article includes a two-piece first die section including a densifying die member and a base die member and a second die section. The first and second die sections define a die cavity therebetween having the shape of an article to be cast. The die sections are movable between an open position and a closed position in which the die cavity can be filled with an accurately controlled volume of molten material. The densifying die member is movable relative to the base die member from a first position to a densifying position in which the densifying die member is spaced apart from the base die member to accurately reduce the volume of the die cavity when the first and second die sections are in their closed position and the die cavity is filled with molten material.