English to English translations [PRO] Tech/Engineering - Construction / Civil Engineering
English term or phrase:fitting and mo(u)lding
Hello colleagues,
I am not sure about the term "Formteil" in German, finding either 'moulding' or 'fitting' as English equivalents.
As far as I understand it, the definition of 'moulding' is something that is a part made by casting or moulding.
The definition of 'fitting' is a small and standardised part for a larger assembly.
Am I right with these definitions? Are the two words interchangeable?
To be more precise, my text talks about various 'Formteile': 'compression sleeve Formteile', the 'Formteile' of the domestic installation system of the company', 'thread Formteile', 'a special assembly of tools for the company's Formteile', and others. The company is a manufacturer of heating systems. Mostly, we are talking about heating pipes and their installation here.
So 'fitting' is a more general term than 'moulding'? Am I on the safe side by simply always using 'fitting'?
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Answers
1 hr confidence: peer agreement (net): +1
COMMENT (not for grading)
Explanation: In the specific context given, the definitions as givne are indeed correct --- 'plumbing fitting(s)' is quite a specialised use of the word.
But please note than in other contexts, they would not be at all interchangeable! The fact is that traditionally, and still today, many plumbing fittings were made as cast parts (brass, cast-iron, etc.)
In addition to the basic meaning of casting (as required here), moulding can also of course be a linear decorative feature in architectural, construction and woodworking contexts.
And fitting, besides electrical, plumbing and gas (etc.) systems can of course have other meanings that diverge quite a long way from this specific use.
But yes, of course, in your context, you're right (and so of course is my other colleague!)
-------------------------------------------------- Note added at 1 hr 10 mins (2004-07-12 16:15:11 GMT) --------------------------------------------------
In answer to your addendum: yes, in your context, fitting would be the more generic term, and \'moulding/casting\' would rarely (if ever) be appropriate.
Tony M France Local time: 09:39 Native speaker of: English PRO pts in category: 20
peer agreement (net): +1
