Abstract: In a method for forming high purity NiTi alloys conventionally formed NiTi alloy containing inclusions is melted with a slag forming material which will chemically react with the inclusions. The slag forming material preferably is or contains CaF2 and some free calcium.

Abstract: In a method for forming high purity NiTi alloys conventionally formed NiTi alloy containing inclusions is melted with a slag forming material which will chemically react with the inclusions. The slag forming material preferably is or contains CaF2 and some free calcium.

Abstract: A system and method for producing a metallic ingot using, for example, a VAR furnace, includes a primary crucible receiving a melted metal from a source of metal and collecting the melted metal to for a pool of melted metal, the primary crucible including an overflow lip, a secondary crucible receiving the melted metal from the overflow lip of the primary crucible, the secondary crucible being smaller than and electrically isolated from the primary crucible, and a withdrawal device withdrawing the molten metal, solidified by cooling, from the secondary crucible in the form of solidified ingots, wherein the solidified ingots have a smaller diameter than a diameter of the source of metal. A cutting device periodically cuts the withdrawn solidified ingots as they are withdrawn from the secondary crucible.