Spitting as article breaks piece of equipment (10)

I believe the answer is:

impalement

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'spitting' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both acts as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?

I don't understand the remainder of the clue.

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(Another definition for impalement that I've seen is " Running through".)

I've seen this clue in The Times.

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