Abstract: An apparatus for casting a part that includes a first housing, a second housing, a handling system and a cooling apparatus. The first housing defines a first chamber. The first chamber is configured to receive a melt heater and a mold heater. The second housing is configured to move between a first position and a second position such that when the second housing is in the first position, the first housing is open such that a mold can be inserted therein and when the second housing is in the second position, the second housing and the first housing define a second chamber. The cooling apparatus is configured to be positioned within the second chamber.

Abstract: A method for casting a part, that includes the steps of: introducing a mold into a first housing; engaging the first housing with a second housing to define a second chamber; melting an ingot within the furnace; reducing pressure within the second chamber to a first predetermined pressure; pouring at least a portion of the melted ingot into the mold; adding an gas to the second chamber to raise the pressure to a second predetermined pressure; moving the mold such that it is engaged with the means for cooling; and solidifying the liquid metal within the mold.

Abstract: A method for casting a part, that includes the steps of: introducing a mold into a first housing; engaging the first housing with a second housing to define a second chamber; melting an ingot within the furnace; reducing pressure within the second chamber to a first predetermined pressure; pouring at least a portion of the melted ingot into the mold; adding an gas to the second chamber to raise the pressure to a second predetermined pressure; moving the mold such that it is engaged with the means for cooling; and solidifying the liquid metal within the mold.

Abstract: An apparatus for casting a part that includes a first housing, a second housing, a handling system and a means for cooling. The first housing defines a first chamber. The first chamber is configured to receive a melt heater and a mold heater. The second housing is configured to move between a first position and a second position such that when the second housing is in the first position, the first housing is open such that a mold can be inserted therein and when the second housing is in the second position, the second housing and the first housing define a second chamber. The means for cooling is configured to be positioned within the second chamber.