babbittmetal
nounUK /ˈbæbɪtˌmɛtəl/
US /ˈbæbɪtˌmɛtəl/
A soft metal mix used to make smooth, slippery parts inside machines.
The mechanic coated the bearing with babbittmetal so the spinning shaft would turn easily.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A tin-based alloy containing antimony and copper, named after Isaac Babbitt.
Babbittmetal is often poured into a bearing shell while molten.
3. Any of several similar soft alloys used to reduce friction between moving parts.
Different grades of babbittmetal suit different engine loads.
4. A thin layer of such alloy applied to a bearing surface.
The worn babbittmetal was scraped away before the new layer was cast.