Because it's strong and long-lasting, expanded metal is probably the best product to choose for your next project. It surpasses its rivals, such as chicken wire, because it is more affordable and available in a variety of weights and sizes.

In Hartlepool, UK, expanded metal manufacturing was initially created and protected by a copyright in the 1880s. Modern metal expansion is still done in a manner akin to the ancient method, despite technological developments.

What is expanded metal used for?

There are many different uses for expanded metal mesh in many different industries. Below are mentioned are some of the uses for expanded metal.

1. Metal Platforms

Expanded metal sheets are utilized on many platforms that must be operated at significant heights. This is done in order to benefit from light weight. Rigging is one example of such an application, whether it be for the transportation, oil, or telecommunications sectors, among others.

2. Machine Guards

The mesh can be positioned over machinery and revolving shafts. In terms of protecting machine operators, it is just as effective as solid guards but lighter.

3. Drainage and Ventilation

Expanded metal can be included in a structure to provide ventilation and/or drainage. It can be placed over drainage ditches, including those found on factory floors, alongside pathways, and on roadsides.

4. Walkway Applications

Expanded metal is used in some bridges' pedestrian walkways to lower deck weight without sacrificing structural integrity. For similar reasons, expanded metal mesh is used in many other suspended walkways.

5. Fence Applications

Protective fences, yard borders, cages, and other animal enclosures can all be made with expanded metal.

6. Equipment Ventilation

Expanded metal sheets are one type of equipment covering. In situations where it would not be appropriate to use a solid sheet or leave the region uncovered, employing the mesh can be excellent.

Generators, tractors, earthmoving machinery engines, air and water pumps, and other similar pieces of equipment have expanded metal coverings.

7. Recreational Uses

Expanded metal sheets are sometimes used in recreational parks to create excitement and entertainment over sheer, high-cliff faces.

Types of Expanded Metal

Standard expanded metal, flattened expanded metal, expanded metal mesh, and expanded metal grating are the four primary varieties of expanded metal mesh catalogue. Each begins as a sheet of metal and develops into a certain type.

• Standard Expanded Metal Mesh Catalogue

A metal sheet is fed into a mechanical press that cuts and stretches metal to generate standard expanded metal. This procedure produces overlapping, diamond-patterned strips. Although this pattern allows air to circulate, the metal's strength and durability are maintained.

• Flattened Expanded Metal Mesh Catalogue

Compared to regular expanded metal, flattened expanded metal weighs around 5% less. Flattened expanded metal is produced in a second stage that comes after the regular procedure used to make standard expanded metal. It is flattened using a cold rolling press once it comes out of the machine. This procedure contributes to the metal mesh becoming longer, thinner, and flatter.

• Expanded Metal Mesh

There are several sizes and forms available for the expanded metal mesh. There are stronger meshes and more delicate ones. It is created by compressing and stretching a single, solid metal sheet. Expanded metal mesh is used to create both functional and decorative items, like fences, aerated storage systems, and dividing screens.

• Expanded Metal Grating

With this kind, low-carbon steel plates are produced. Compared to regular ones, they weigh more. These are utilized in places like walkways, stairwells, and major pedestrian zones where durability is required. Products made with expanded metal grating have an excellent strength-to-weight ratio. Because the non-slip surface is created by the slitting and stretching of metal plates, they are also inherently non-slip and do not require a non-slip coating. This kind turns out to be among the strongest and most affordable materials.

Benefits of Expanded Metal

Expanded metals are very advantageous and have a vast array of applications. A few are explained here:

• Expanded metal has the benefit of being a green product and being friendly to the environment. Expanded metal is a cost-effective alternative since there is very little waste (scrap metal) in the process from raw material to finished product.
• Compared to metal sheets, the material is less costly and recyclable.
• Expanded metal allows light, fluid, or air to pass through, allowing you to secure a space without completely sealing it off.
• Its diamond-shaped perforations allow dirt, water, and air to move through with ease, maintaining a safe, non-slip surface.
• A vast range of steel and other metals are used in its construction. You can use it for heavy-duty shelving and tiny battery cells, depending on your needs.
• Steel is used to create expanded metal, which gives it unmatched strength and flexibility. It is robust due to its extraordinarily high strength-to-weight ratio. It can support a large weight.
• There are lots of different choices. It can be sliced to the size and form that best suit your needs.

Expanded Metal Terms

• Short Way of Design (SWD)

The distance measured along the short diamond diagonal between two pitch-point centers.

• Long Way of Design (LWD)

The distance measured along the long diamond diagonal between two pitch-point centers.

• Short way of opening (SWO)

The short diamond diagonal's length.

• Long way of opening (LWO)

The long diamond diagonal's length.

• Strands

The sides feature an enlarged metal design.

• Bond

The stable point where two strands converge.

• Strand thickness

The thickness of the material to be enlarged.

• Strand width

One strand's worth of metal plate length is needed.

• LW

Extended metal sheet in a long way.

• SW

Expanded metal sheet in a short way.

Conclusion:

It is reasonable to assume that expanded metal products will continue to be required far into the future. Expansion metal goods will always be very appealing due to their (relatively) low weight, great strength, and reasonable price. The overall patterns of structural and industrial development also appear to be in agreement; among other things, they indicate that platforms, barriers, and decoration will continue to be needed as civil construction must grow in height.

FAQ’s

Why is it called expanded metal?

"Standard expanded metal" describes the metal right out of the expanding apparatus.

Can you cook on expanded metal?

Expanded metal frequently acts as a grill grate, holding the food in place as it cooks. The cooking surface is functional thanks to the expanded metal.

What type of steel is expanded metal?

Copper, titanium, stainless and galvanized steel, and aluminum are a few types of metals that are utilized to create expanded metal. Expanded metal comes in various forms. Every variety is created differently and serves a variety of purposes.

What are the disadvantages of expanded metal?

Expanded metal has drawbacks, like being more susceptible to corrosion and chemical attacks due to its greater surface area per unit length, but overall, the benefits exceed the drawbacks.