I hold a MA in archaeology and am currently doing some preliminary
research on 'white metals' for a project.  I have found that the
definition of 'white metal' differs depending on the source (i.e.
manufacturers, craftsmen, material specialists, etc.).  Many craftsmen
suggest that a 'white metal' is a metal/alloy with a low melting point,
silver in color.  Some manufacturers include Pb among Sn, Sb, Zn, and Bi
while others omit it.  Some material specialists include Ni (even though
it has a higher melting point).  And still others have gone as far as
including Au, Ag, and Pt in the definition.  I would be very interested
to hear how people on this listserv define this term.  Additionally I
would be interested in any references regarding white metal alloys. 

 

 

Chris Wilkins