A came is a divider bar used between small pieces of glass to make a larger glazing panel, sometimes referred to as leaded glass. This process is then referred to as "leading". Cames are mostly made of soft metals such as lead, zinc, copper or brass. They generally have an H-shaped cross section, although U-shaped cross sections are used for the borders of panels. The term leaded glass either refers to: glass containing lead oxide, which increases its density and enhances its refraction and dispersion of light. ... For the lead in news writing, see news style. ... General Name, Symbol, Number zinc, Zn, 30 Chemical series transition metals Group, Period, Block 12, 4, d Density, Hardness 7140 kg/m3, 2. ... General Name, Symbol, Number copper, Cu, 29 Chemical series transition metals Group, Period, Block 11 , 4, d Density, Hardness 8920 kg/m3, 3. ... Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc. ...
Came is prone to natural deterioration from weathering and from thermal expansion and contraction, which causes metal fatigue.
Came can have a flat, rounded, or "colonial" profile, and aside from a few specialty and perimeter cames (U-channel), is based on a variation of the letter "H" and ranges from _" (3.2mm) wide to 1½" (38mm) wide.
Lead and zinc came, however, is intended to be a sacrificial element of a glass unit assembly, as mortar is to brick and paint is to wood; came will break down long before glass and must be replaced; came lasts 75 to 200 years depending on the window's quality, design and environment.