Introduction
Expanded metal wire mesh is a widely used material for a variety of purposes, from industrial to decorative. Know more about this versatile and widely used material, including its characteristics, benefits, and applications.
Explore more about the different types of expanded metal wire mesh including its benefits and applications to different industries.
1. What is expanded metal
Expanded metal is a type of metal mesh that has been made by slitting and stretching a metal sheet to create a pattern of uniform diamond-shaped openings. The stretching process expands the sheet into a three-dimensional structure that has strength and rigidity while still allowing light, air, and other materials to pass through.
2. How expanded metal wire mesh is made
Expanded metal wire mesh is made through a process called “expanding.” Here are the steps involved in making expanded metal wire mesh:
- Material selection: The first step is to select the metal material that will be used to make the mesh. This can include aluminum, steel, stainless steel, brass, and copper.
- Slitting: The metal sheet is then slit by a series of sharp blades, creating cuts and gaps in the sheet.
- Stretching: The slit metal sheet is then fed through a machine that stretches it in a series of steps. The stretching causes the metal to expand, creating characteristic diamond-shaped openings.
- Cutting: The expanded metal sheet is then cut to size, according to the desired dimensions and shape.
- Finishing: The expanded metal sheet can be finished with a variety of coatings and treatments to enhance its properties, such as corrosion resistance or aesthetic appeal.
- Rolling: The expanded metal sheet can be rolled into a coil for storage and transportation, or it can be cut into smaller sheets for use in specific applications.
The result is a durable and versatile metal mesh that can be used in a wide range of applications.
3. Available types of expanded metal wire mesh
Standard expanded metal mesh
Standard expanded metal mesh is a type of expanded metal that has uniform diamond-shaped openings and is produced using a specific set of parameters. These parameters include the strand width, the diamond size, the strand thickness, and the overall thickness of the metal sheet. Standard expanded metal mesh is produced using a continuous and automated process, which ensures consistent and precise results.
The standard expanded metal mesh is typically made from steel, aluminum, or stainless steel and can be coated with various finishes to enhance its properties. It is commonly used in industrial and construction applications, such as walkways, platforms, fencing, and filtration.
Standard expanded metal mesh is available in a wide range of sizes and configurations to suit specific applications. It is an affordable and versatile option for creating durable and functional metal mesh structures.
Flattened expanded metal mesh
Flattened expanded metal mesh is a type of expanded metal that has been passed through a rolling process that flattens the metal mesh and reduces its thickness. This rolling process creates a smoother and more uniform surface, which can make it more suitable for certain applications, such as architectural and decorative uses.
The flattening process involves passing the expanded metal through a series of rollers that compress the diamond-shaped openings and reduce the thickness of the metal. The degree of flattening can vary, and different levels of flattening can result in different levels of rigidity and flexibility.
Flattened expanded metal mesh is commonly made from materials such as steel, aluminum, or stainless steel, and it can be coated with finishes to enhance its properties. It is often used in architectural and decorative applications, such as facades, sunshades, and privacy screens, as well as in industrial and manufacturing settings, such as walkways, grating, and filtration.
Expanded metal grating
Expanded metal grating is a type of expanded metal that has been specially designed to provide a strong and durable surface for flooring and other industrial and architectural applications.
The expanded metal grating is made by expanding a metal sheet into a diamond-shaped pattern, which provides strength and rigidity while allowing air, water, and other materials to pass through.
Expanded metal grating is commonly made from materials such as steel, aluminum, or stainless steel, and it can be coated with finishes to enhance its properties. The grating can be produced in a variety of thicknesses, strand widths, and diamond sizes to suit specific applications.
Expanded metal grating is commonly used as a flooring surface in industrial and manufacturing settings, such as factories, warehouses, and processing plants. It is also used in outdoor applications, such as walkways, bridges, and decking, where its open design allows for drainage and ventilation.
Expanded metal grating is designed to provide a slip-resistant surface that can withstand heavy loads, making it a popular choice for applications where safety and durability are important. Its design also makes it easy to clean and maintain, making it a practical option for a wide range of applications.
4. Benefits and applications
Benefits
Expanded metal wire mesh is a great option for applications where ventilation, lightness, environmental-friendliness, and weight are important factors. Here are some reasons why:
- Ventilation: Expanded metal wire mesh has a unique diamond-shaped pattern that allows for air and other materials to flow freely through it, making it an excellent option for applications that require ventilation, such as HVAC systems or air vents.
- Lightness: Expanded metal wire mesh is lightweight and easy to handle, making it a practical choice for applications where weight is a concern, such as in the aerospace or automotive industries.
- Environmentally friendly: Expanded metal wire mesh can be made from a variety of environmentally-friendly materials, such as aluminum, which is recyclable and has a low carbon footprint. Additionally, the open design of expanded metal allows for natural light and airflow, which can help reduce energy consumption.
- Durability: Expanded metal wire mesh is a durable and long-lasting material that can withstand harsh environmental conditions and heavy use. It is resistant to corrosion, rust, and degradation, making it an ideal option for outdoor and industrial applications.
- Open design: The diamond-shaped openings in expanded metal wire mesh allow for air, light, and other materials to pass through freely. This makes it an ideal material for applications that require ventilation, visibility, or the flow of liquids or gases.
- Slip resistance: The raised pattern created by the expanding process of expanded metal wire mesh provides a slip-resistant surface, which makes it an ideal material for applications that require safety, such as flooring or stair treads.
- Customizability: Expanded metal wire mesh can be customized to meet the specific requirements of different applications. It can be produced in various sizes, patterns, and thicknesses, and it can also be coated with different finishes to enhance its properties or to provide decorative features.
Applications
Expanded metal wire mesh can be used in various applications related to flooring, stairs, and window security due to its unique properties. Here are some examples:
Flooring
Expanded metal wire mesh is often used as a durable and slip-resistant flooring material in industrial and manufacturing settings. It can also be used as a decorative flooring material in commercial or residential applications.
Stair treads
Expanded metal wire mesh can be used as a stair tread material in both indoor and outdoor settings. Its open design allows for air and light to pass through while providing a slip-resistant surface for safety.
Handrails
Expanded metal wire mesh can also be used as a handrail material in staircases, ramps, and walkways. Its lightweight and durable nature makes it an ideal material for this application.
Window security
Expanded metal wire mesh is often used as a security material for windows and doors. Its strong and durable nature provides a barrier to prevent unauthorized entry while allowing for airflow and visibility.
Fencing
Expanded metal wire mesh can be used as a fencing material for both industrial and residential applications. Its open design allows for visibility and ventilation while providing a strong and durable barrier.
Conclusion
Expanded metal wire mesh is a versatile and cost-effective material that is used for a variety of applications. With its wide range of sizes, shapes, and materials, expanded metal wire mesh can be used for everything from fencing and railing to grills and strainers. Its ability to provide excellent strength, durability, and a low-cost solution makes it a great choice for any project.
