Expanded metal mesh, a versatile and durable material, has found widespread applications across various industries. Its unique properties, including strength, flexibility, and open-mesh structure, make it an ideal choice for a wide range of applications. 

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the different types of expanded metal mesh, explore its diverse uses, and discuss the installation techniques involved.

Types of Expanded Metal Mesh

Expanded metal mesh is available in various configurations, each offering distinct characteristics and advantages:

Standard (Raised) Diamond Expanded Metal Mesh

Standard expanded metal is a versatile option with a wide range of sizes and weights. It's produced by cutting and stretching solid metal into a diamond pattern, which enhances airflow while preserving the material's strength and durability. Diamond expanded metal mesh features a distinctive diamond-shaped pattern, providing excellent ventilation and drainage properties. Its open structure allows for airflow and fluid passage, making it ideal for applications such as filtration systems, architectural facades, and safety fencing. If you're unsure which type of expanded metal to choose, standard expanded metal is a reliable starting point.

Flattened Expanded Metal Mesh

Flattened expanded metal grating is produced by passing standard expanded metal through a cold rolling process, which compresses the raised bonds and reduces its thickness and weight to create a smooth, flat surface. Applications of flattened expanded metal include flooring, speaker grilles, or machine guards.

Heavy Duty Expanded Metal Mesh Grating

Expanded metal grating is a robust solution for heavy-duty applications. Constructed from low carbon steel plates, it offers exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, making it ideal for walkways, stairs, platforms, and other pedestrian areas. Its natural slip-resistant surface and open design of expanded metal gratings provide excellent fire protection and prevent the buildup of dirt, water, grease, and other debris.

Micro Expanded Metal Mesh

Micro expanded metal is a highly specialised form of expanded metal characterised by its exceptionally small and precise perforations. This unique feature makes it ideal for applications that require fine filtration, such as industrial filtration and food and beverage processing.

Expanded Metal Mesh Applications

The versatility of expanded metal mesh has led to its adoption in numerous industries:

Architectural Applications

• Facades and cladding: Expanded metal mesh can be used as a decorative element in building facades and cladding, adding visual interest and enhancing ventilation.

• Interior design elements: The metal mesh’s versatility allows for its incorporation into various interior design elements, such as partitions, screens, and ceilings.

• Stair treads and railings: Expanded metal mesh can be used to create unique and durable stair treads and railings, adding a modern touch to architectural designs.

• Sunshades and screens: The metal mesh’s open structure provides shade and protection from the sun, while allowing for airflow and natural light.

Decorative accents: Expanded metal mesh can be used to create decorative accents, such as sculptures, art installations, and architectural features.

Construction and Infrastructure

• Fencing and security barriers: The metal mesh’s strength and durability make it ideal for constructing fences, security barriers, and perimeter protection systems.

• Safety nets and fall protection: Expanded metal mesh is used to create safety nets, fall protection systems, and guardrails, safeguarding workers and preventing accidents.

• Bridge decking and walkways: The metal mesh’s open structure provides excellent drainage, preventing water accumulation and ensuring safe passage.

Industrial Applications

• Machinery components: Expanded metal mesh is used to fabricate machine parts, such as conveyor belts, screens, and filters, due to its strength, durability, and resistance to abrasion.

• Filtration systems: The metal mesh’s open structure allows for effective filtration of liquids and gases, making it a valuable component in various filtration systems.

• Material handling equipment: Expanded metal mesh is used in material handling equipment, such as hoppers, chutes, and bins, to facilitate the flow of materials.

• Conveyor belts: The metal mesh’s strength and abrasion resistance make it a suitable material for conveyor belts, ensuring efficient and reliable material transport.

• Safety guards: Expanded metal mesh is used to create safety guards and enclosures, protecting workers from hazardous machinery and equipment.

Galvanised Expanded Metal Mesh

Galvanised expanded metal mesh is a popular choice due to its enhanced corrosion resistance and durability. The galvanisation process involves coating the metal with a layer of zinc, which acts as a protective barrier against rust and other forms of corrosion.

Advantages of Galvanised Expanded Metal Mesh

Corrosion Resistance

The zinc coating provides excellent protection against rust and other forms of corrosion, making galvanised expanded metal mesh suitable for outdoor applications and environments with harsh conditions.

Durability

The zinc layer enhances the durability of the mesh, ensuring its long-term performance and resistance to wear and tear.

Long Lifespan

Galvanised expanded metal mesh has a longer lifespan compared to untreated metal mesh, reducing the need for frequent replacement and maintenance.

Common Applications of Galvanised Expanded Metal Mesh

• Outdoor fencing and security barriers: Galvanised expanded metal mesh is widely used in outdoor fencing and security barriers due to its durability and resistance to corrosion.

• Agricultural applications: Its corrosion resistance makes it suitable for agricultural applications, such as livestock enclosures and poultry netting.

• Industrial equipment: Galvanised expanded metal mesh is used in various industrial equipment, including machinery components and filtration systems.

• Marine structures: Its resistance to corrosion makes it suitable for marine structures, such as docks, piers, and boat ramps.

• Infrastructure projects: Galvanised expanded metal mesh is used in infrastructure projects, such as bridges, roads, and tunnels, to enhance durability and longevity.

Installation Techniques

Proper installation is essential to ensure the optimal performance and longevity of expanded metal mesh. The following steps outline the general installation process:

Measure and Cut

Measure the required dimensions of the expanded metal mesh and cut it to size using appropriate tools, such as shears or a circular saw.

Prepare the Surface

Ensure the surface to which the expanded metal mesh will be attached is clean and free from any obstructions.

Fastening

Use appropriate fasteners, such as screws, bolts, or rivets, to secure the expanded metal mesh to the desired structure. The specific method will depend on the application and the type of structure involved.

Safety Considerations

Always prioritise safety during installation. Wear appropriate protective gear, such as gloves and safety glasses, and follow safety guidelines.

Supply Bay: Your Trusted Partner for Expanded Metal Mesh

In conclusion, expanded metal mesh offers a versatile and durable solution for a wide range of applications. Its unique properties, including strength, flexibility, and open-mesh structure, make it an ideal choice for construction, industrial, architectural, and agricultural sectors. By understanding the different types of expanded metal mesh, exploring its diverse uses, and following proper installation techniques, you can effectively utilise this material to meet your specific needs.

Supply Bay is a trusted supplier of high-quality expanded metal mesh products. With our expertise and commitment to customer satisfaction, we offer a wide range of expanded metal mesh options to suit your project requirements. Whether you need standard (raised) expanded metal mesh, flattened expanded metal mesh, heavy duty expanded metal mesh gratings, micro expanded metal mesh, or galvanised mesh, we have the products you need. 

Contact us today to learn more about our expanded metal mesh offerings and how we can assist you with your project.