Abstract: Method and apparatus for producing semi-finished or finished products from metal-based material. The apparatus includes a mixing furnace to receive a metal-based material to be formed; temperature control means to maintain the metal-based material in a thixotropic semi-solid state in the mixing furnace; rotatable mixing means operable in the mixing furnace to subject the metal-based material to a mixing and shearing action while imparting a centrifugal force; and supply means to move the material to a delivery site. Optionally, injection means are provided to inject the material from an introduction chamber of a casting machine into a mold or die cavity while the material is in a thixotropic semi-solid state.