System and method of forming a solid casting

A solid casting forming system, comprising:

• a mold comprising a retractable bottom configured to be withdrawn downwards, the mold being configured for a material to be introduced therein, and for a first portion of the material at a first, lower position within the mold to solidify, to thereby form a portion of the casting;
• the retractable bottom having a dovetail puller configured to occupy a portion of the lower position in which the casting starts formation;
• a plasma arc torch configured and positioned relative to mold to generate a plasma arc and thereby apply heat to a second portion of the material at a second, upper position within the mold to thereby maintain the second portion of the material in a liquid state;
• and
• a controller configured to measure a voltage of the plasma arc and to control the forming the portion of the casting based on the voltage of the plasma arc.