Gilding metal is a yellow alloy made of copper and zinc that is often used to decorate objects. The spelling of this word can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription: /ˈɡɪldɪŋ ˈmɛtəl/. The "g" is pronounced as a hard "g" sound, the "i" is pronounced as the short "i" sound, the "d" is pronounced as a soft "d" sound, the "n" is pronounced as the "ng" sound, the "m" is pronounced as the "m" sound, and the "e" is pronounced as the short "e" sound. The final "l" is pronounced clearly.
Gilding metal is a type of alloy that is primarily composed of copper with a small addition of zinc or other metals. It is commonly used in various applications that require a durable and corrosion-resistant material with a visually appealing golden appearance, reminiscent of gold plating.
The name "gilding metal" is derived from the fact that this alloy was originally created as a substitute for gold leaf in gilding techniques. It possesses similar visual properties to gold, allowing it to be used as an affordable alternative in decorative applications.
The exact composition of gilding metal may vary, but it typically contains around 90% copper and 10% zinc. This combination results in a material that exhibits excellent ductility, making it easy to shape and mold into various forms. It also provides good electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity, and resistance to corrosion, making it suitable for electrical connectors, fittings, and components that require these properties.
Gilding metal is commonly used in the manufacturing of coins, jewelry, and various decorative items due to its resemblance to gold. Its versatility extends to applications in the automotive industry for radiator tanks and heat exchanger tubes due to its excellent thermal conductivity and corrosion resistance. Additionally, it is also frequently used in ammunition manufacturing for jacketing bullets due to its ability to withstand high velocities and pressures.
The word "gilding metal" comes from the noun "gild", which means to cover with a thin layer of gold. The term "gilding metal" refers to a copper alloy that resembles gold when polished. It is often used in decorative applications where a gold-like appearance is desired but without the expense of using actual gold.