type metal

type metal

type metal alloy of lead with antimony, tin, and sometimes copper, so named because of its one time extensive use for making printing type. Expanding upon solidification, the alloy takes a fine and clear impression of the mold in which it hardens. It has a low melting point. Once used extensively for type, it is also employed in making the metal parts of various musical instruments and for ornaments of intricate design and pattern. The percentages of the metals in the alloy vary, according to the use to which it is to be put.

Show all research tools

Cite this article
Pick a style below, and copy the text for your bibliography.

  • MLA
  • Chicago
  • APA

"type metal." The Columbia Encyclopedia, 6th ed.. 2008. Encyclopedia.com. 12 Feb. 2012 <http://www.encyclopedia.com>.

"type metal." The Columbia Encyclopedia, 6th ed.. 2008. Encyclopedia.com. (February 12, 2012). http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1E1-typemeta.html

"type metal." The Columbia Encyclopedia, 6th ed.. 2008. Retrieved February 12, 2012 from Encyclopedia.com: http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1E1-typemeta.html

Learn more about citation styles

type metal

type met·al • n. Printing an alloy of lead, tin, and antimony, used for casting type.

Show all research tools

Cite this article
Pick a style below, and copy the text for your bibliography.

  • MLA
  • Chicago
  • APA

"type metal." The Oxford American College Dictionary. 2009. Encyclopedia.com. 12 Feb. 2012 <http://www.encyclopedia.com>.

"type metal." The Oxford American College Dictionary. 2009. Encyclopedia.com. (February 12, 2012). http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1O997-typemetal.html

"type metal." The Oxford American College Dictionary. 2009. Retrieved February 12, 2012 from Encyclopedia.com: http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1O997-typemetal.html

Learn more about citation styles

Free newspaper and magazine articles

The atomic energy of surface finishes: taking a smaller perspective with...
Magazine article from: Printed Circuit Design &amp; Fab; 1/1/2009
Pupils and public to be checked for weapons; CAMPAIGN: Airport-type metal...
Newspaper article from: Coventry Evening Telegraph (England); 3/12/2008
Marking systems match applications: nine marking systems, ranging from hand...
Magazine article from: Modern Applications News; 6/1/2006

Facts and information from other sites

type metal images
type metal. (Image by Norro, GFDL)