Abstract: An apparatus and method for casting metal in an evacuated mold cavity. The apparatus has a preferential suction zone through which a mold can be preferentially and effectively evacuated and a suction head sealingly fitting the upper surface of the mold. To the apparatus, is further provided a pressing means for pressing, in cooperation with the suction head, the mold against the inner bottom surface of a mold support chamber. By evacuating the mold through the preferential suction zone while pressing the mold to the bottom of the mold support chamber, a mold cavity is easily filled with a molten metal in such a manner to avoid casting defects such as insufficient filling, blow hole, surface fold, under fill, etc.