Pronunciation: [spˈɛltə] (IPA) 
Spelter is spelled with the letters s-p-e-l-t-e-r. The phonetic transcription of this word is /spɛltər/. The first syllable is pronounced with a short "e" sound, followed by a soft "l" sound. The second syllable is emphasized, pronounced with a short "e" sound, and ending with the "tər" sound. This word is a noun that refers to a type of zinc alloy that is commonly used in the manufacturing of metal objects.
Spelter is a noun that refers to a type of zinc alloy used in various industrial applications. The term can also be used to describe a type of zinc metal that is commonly used as a coating or protective layer for iron or steel objects.
In its alloy form, spelter typically consists of different ratios of zinc, aluminum, and copper, resulting in a metal with improved strength and corrosion resistance. This alloy is commonly used in the manufacturing of electrical wires, as it provides good conductivity and durability. Additionally, spelter alloys can be found in the production of die castings, where they are molded into intricate shapes for various industrial and consumer products such as automotive parts or kitchen utensils.
Spelter is also employed as a protective coating or layer for iron or steel objects through a process known as galvanization. This involves immersing the metal in a molten bath of spelter, allowing the zinc to form a protective barrier that prevents corrosion and rust. This galvanized layer is commonly used in the production of outdoor structures like fences, gates, or metal furniture.
Overall, spelter is a versatile material with various applications in industrial settings, whether it be as an alloy for electrical components or as a protective layer for metal objects. Its properties of strength, corrosion resistance, and ease of molding make it an indispensable material in many manufacturing processes.
Crude commercial zinc.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Zinc in thick plates or masses, usually unrefined.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word spelter has an interesting etymology. It originally comes from the German word Spelt or Spalz, which referred to a specific type of zinc ore. It later evolved into Spelterz, combining Spelt with the German word Erz meaning ore.
In the 19th century, spelter began to be used in English as a term for a zinc alloy, particularly one made with impure zinc. It specifically referred to the type of zinc used for casting small statues or other decorative objects. The term gained popularity in the UK and US during the Victorian era.
Today, spelter is mostly used to describe zinc alloys or zinc-based materials found in older buildings or sculptures. However, the more common term for these alloys is now zinc die casting or simply zinc.
