Vacuum induction melting and casting is the most commonly used process in secondary metallurgy to melt solid metal feedstock, to refine the metals while in the liquid state and to adjust the chemical composition. Melting and casting in vacuum or controlled inert gas atmosphere is often required for the production of a variety of high-performance metal alloys and is essential for quality manufacturing of Ni-based super-alloys as well as Fe-, Co-, Cr-based and other special alloys.

The advantages of VIM include precise modification and control of the alloy composition while in a controlled atmosphere. Subsequent casting of the molten metal again under vacuum or controlled inert gas atmosphere in partly pre-heated molds or using other casting technologies such as continuous casting minimizes surface oxidation of the cast metal and can improve material properties.