to break into smaller pieces, as ore; split or chip.
verb (used without object)
3.
to break or split off in chips or bits.
Origin
1750-60; origin uncertain; compare late Middle Englishspalle a chip
Related forms
spaller, noun
nonspalling, adjective
Examples from the web for spall
When the metal plate spalls, it creates a spall disk that is ejected from the bottom.
If dowel bars are reached, a full-depth spall repair must be used.
Percussion flaking is accomplished by striking the chert with a stone or heavy antler billet, thereby driving off a spall.
The corrosion causes the concrete to spall from the bridge and also reduces the cross section of the steel bars.
Rehab includes joint re-sealing, crack repair, spall repair and shoulder grading.
Corrosion of the reinforcing steel causes the surface mortar to spall.
However, spalling can occur in any climate, and proper partial-depth spall repair will help reduce further deterioration.
Because of the technique used in its manufacture, this specimen has been categorized as a spall gunflint.
The corrosion can cause the concrete to crack and spall.
Water infiltration, in addition to vehicle vibrations in the spall pockets, may be causing the spalls.
British Dictionary definitions for spall
spall
/spɔːl/
noun
1.
a splinter or chip of ore, rock, or stone
verb
2.
to split or cause to split into such fragments
Word Origin
C15: of unknown origin
Word Origin and History for spall
n.
"chip of stone," mid-15c., from Middle English verb spald "to split open" (early 14c.), from or related to Middle Dutch spalden, Middle Low German spalden, cognate with Old High German spaltan "to split" (see spill (v.)).