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Glite Dictionary
alpha bronze

alpha bronze

8.1
A metal made from copper and tin used for parts that are easy to shape
  • noun
  • /ˈælfə brɒnz/
  • Specialized
translation icon : bronce alfa
  • Engineers often choose alpha bronze for components that require easy shaping and machining.

Examples

  • The statue was cast from alpha bronze because of its excellent workability.

  • Unlike other alloys, alpha bronze resists corrosion and maintains strength at higher temperatures.

  • The sculpture was made of alpha bronze.

  • Many artists prefer alpha bronzes for their durability.

  • Engineers often choose alpha bronze for components that require easy shaping and machining.

  • The statue was cast from alpha bronze because of its excellent workability.

  • Unlike other alloys, alpha bronze resists corrosion and maintains strength at higher temperatures.

Synonyms

bronze
vsalpha bronze
41 3.0

A yellowish-brown metal made from copper and tin used for coins, medals, and sculptures

is a specific alloy with low tin content used for industrial forming

Surface Forms

alpha bronze singular
alpha bronzes plural

Morphology

alpha + bronze

A B1 learner who knows 'alpha' (as 'first' or a qualifier) and 'bronze' (the alloy) will readily infer that this denotes a kind or type of bronze, so the basic referent is transparent. However, the specific metallurgical sense of 'alpha' indicating a particular phase/composition (up to ~8% tin) is technical and not derivable from the everyday meaning of 'alpha', making the exact meaning unpredictable without prior exposure.

Etymology

Alpha bronze comes from alpha (meaning 'first' or 'main') and bronze (a metal mix of copper and tin). It names the copper-rich, easy-to-shape form of bronze, so people use alpha bronze when they need metal that can be made into parts.