Abstract: A titanium alloy may be characterized by a good oxidation resistance, high strength and creep resistance at elevated temperatures up to 750° C., and good cold/hot forming ability, good superplastic forming performance, and good weldability. The alloy may contain, in weight percent, aluminum 4.5 to 7.5, tin 2.0 to 8.0, niobium 1.5 to 6.5, molybdenum 0.1 to 2.5, silicon 0.1 to 0.6, oxygen up to 0.20, carbon up to 0.10, and balance titanium with incidental impurities.

Abstract: A casting furnace for manufacturing a metal casting comprises an interior chamber and a secondary chamber through which the metal casting passes from the interior chamber into external atmosphere. A seal along the secondary chamber surrounds and seals against the metal casting to separate the interior chamber from the external atmosphere in a manner which allows for an extended period of continuous casting. A force producing mechanism may force the seal against the metal casting. Multiple seals may be used sequentially to increase the duration of the sealing capability and the continuous casting process. Inert gas sensors may detect loss of inert gas from the interior chamber.