Since its founding in 1969, TWP Inc. has witnessed the evolution of industrial wire mesh into a vital component of modern manufacturing and construction. To help our customers better understand this essential material, we've created a comprehensive guide that covers various aspects of metal cloth, from basic definitions to advanced applications.
This guide will explore the following key topics:
- **The Basics of Industrial Wire Mesh:** An introduction to what wire mesh is and the common materials used.
- **Key Wire Mesh Definitions to Know:** Important terms and concepts related to wire mesh.
- **Understanding Industrial Wire Mesh Gauge Sizes:** A detailed look at how gauge sizes affect strength and filtration.
- **Wire Mesh Materials:** An overview of different types of industrial wire mesh and their properties and uses.
- **TWP Inc.’s Services:** Insight into our services, such as in-house laser cutting, cleaning, and more.
This resource is designed to provide valuable knowledge that can assist you in making informed decisions for your projects and purchases.
### What’s the Difference Between Wire Mesh & Hardware Cloth?
Let’s start by defining the difference between wire mesh and hardware cloth.
**Metal Wire Mesh** is a grid pattern made by weaving or welding metal wires together. It's widely used across industries due to its versatility and durability.
**Hardware Cloth**, on the other hand, is a specific type of wire mesh with a galvanized coating for enhanced corrosion resistance. It features a welded construction, providing a rigid and durable structure.
In summary, hardware cloth is a stronger and more durable form of wire mesh, ideal for outdoor and heavy-duty applications.
### The Basics of Industrial Wire Mesh
Industrial woven wire mesh, also known as industrial metal mesh, is a precisely engineered network of interlocked wires created through a rigorous weaving process. This results in a product that meets the desired size and pattern for a specific application.
An experienced wire mesh supplier can advise you on which material to choose, whether square or filter mesh is needed, and help you select the right weave types, opening sizes, and more.
#### Common Metal Mesh Materials
- Stainless steel
- Plain steel
- Micronic wire
- Aluminum
- Copper
- Brass
- Galvanized steel
- Welded mesh
Explore all industrial wire mesh options here.
### Key Wire Mesh Definitions to Know
- **Mesh Count:** The number of openings per linear inch.
- **Mesh Opening:** The hole size and the distance between two closest parallel wires.
- **Wire Diameter:** The thickness or gauge of a round wire.
- **Filter Rating:** Indicates the ability of the mesh to remove particles of a specific size.
- **Absolute Filter Rating:** Retains nearly 100% of filtered contents.
- **Nominal Filter Rating:** Retains between 60% and 90% of filtered contents.
- **Weave:** The over-under pattern of intersecting wires.
- **Shute Wires:** The wires that run across the width.
- **Warp Wires:** The wires that run down the length of the mesh.
- **Finish:** The surface of the fabricated metal mesh.
- **Galvanized Hardware Cloth:** Mesh coated with zinc for added strength and rust resistance.
- **Welded:** Mesh where wires are joined using resistance welding.
Learn more about wire cloth terminology here.
### Understanding Industrial Wire Mesh Gauge Sizes
The wire mesh gauge refers to the thickness or diameter of the wire, usually measured in inches. A higher gauge number means a thicker wire diameter. Choosing the correct gauge and material based on the application is crucial.
To help you, we recommend using our gauge table or contacting us directly to ensure you get the right product.
View our complete wire mesh gauge table here.
Here’s a useful overview to help you understand mesh gauges. Remember, the wire diameter affects everything from the mesh's strength to its filtration capabilities.
#### Higher Gauge Number
- Thicker wire
- Wider mesh openings
- Suitable for fencing and pest control
- Sturdy but harder to cut
#### Lower Gauge Number
- Thinner wire
- Finer mesh
- Ideal for filters and insect screens
- Flexible but less durable
Dive deeper into wire mesh gauge sizes here.
### Metal Wire Mesh Materials
#### Aluminum
Aluminum wire mesh is versatile and cost-effective, excelling in several applications thanks to its quality and adaptability. Its flexibility makes it easy to shape, mold, and cut with standard tools.
**Uses:** Filtration, pest control, fan guards, lightweight screening, wire cloth discs, construction panels.
**Benefits:** Lightweight, versatile, high conductivity, cost-effective, corrosion-resistant.
#### Brass
Brass wire mesh combines strength, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Its golden-yellow color, tensile strength, and abrasion resistance make it popular for both home and professional use.
**Uses:** Plumbing screens, liquid and air filtration, chemical processing, fireplace screens, indoor lighting design, spark arrestors.
**Benefits:** Aesthetic appeal, malleable, abrasion resistant, higher tensile strength, improved filtration.
#### Bronze
Bronze wire mesh offers durability and aesthetic appeal. Made from an alloy of copper and zinc, it surpasses both copper and brass in strength and corrosion resistance.
**Uses:** Filter discs, spark arrestors, room dividers, lamps, cabinets, insect screens.
**Benefits:** Aesthetically pleasing, wear resistant, corrosion resistant, ductile, non-magnetic.
#### Copper
Copper wire mesh provides excellent thermal and electrical conductivity. Its soft nature allows it to be easily soldered while still being malleable.
**Uses:** Gutter guards, snail barriers, cryogenic heat exchangers, RFI shielding, light fixtures, electrical applications.
**Benefits:** Corrosion resistant, conductive, anti-microbial, malleable, chemical resistant.
#### Galvanized Hardware Cloth
Galvanized hardware cloth is created by coating metal with a layer of zinc to prevent rust. It's economical and suitable for many industries.
**Uses:** Gardens, roofing, window guards, rodent control, fencing, soffit screens.
**Benefits:** Rust resistant, durable, versatile, low maintenance, fire resistant.
#### Metal Wire Mesh Filter Discs
Wire mesh discs are circular filters made from woven or sintered metal wire. They are used for separation, sorting, and sieving processes across industries.
**Industries:** Medical, oil and gas, food and beverage, power, agriculture, mining.
**Benefits:** Precise filtration, chemical resistant, high-temperature tolerance, efficient reusable, customizable.
#### Micronic Wire Mesh
Micronic wire mesh is a stainless steel filter cloth with precise weave patterns, offering nominal or absolute filter ratings.
**Industries:** Pharmaceutical, chemical, water treatment, automotive, electronics, medical.
**Benefits:** Precise filtration, chemical resistant, thermal stability, customizable, high open area.
#### Monel Wire Mesh
Monel mesh is composed of nickel and copper alloys, known for its strength and corrosion resistance. It can withstand high temperatures and chemicals.
**Industries:** Aerospace, chemical processing, offshore, power generation, oil and gas, defense.
**Benefits:** Corrosion resistant, durable, temperature stable, chemical resistant, biocompatible.
#### Plain Steel Wire Mesh
Plain steel mesh is an industry workhorse due to its affordability and versatility. While not as corrosion resistant as other materials, its strength and durability make it ideal for various applications.
**Uses:** Grill covers, fireplace screens, building construction, scaffolding, conveyor belts, machine guards.
**Benefits:** Strong, magnetic, good conductivity, high tensile strength, abrasion resistant.
#### PTFE Coated Wire Mesh
PTFE coated wire mesh is stainless steel mesh with a polytetrafluoroethylene coating, creating a hydrophobic and chemically resistant surface.
**Uses:** Chemical filtration, electrical insulation, aerospace parts, food processing, pharmaceutical equipment, fuel and water separation.
**Benefits:** Chemical resistant, non-stick, electrical insulation, UV resistant, hydrophobic.
#### Sintered Wire Mesh
Sintered wire mesh is ideal for filtration in many industries. It's created by bonding multiple layers under high heat and pressure, resulting in a rigid product.
**Uses:** Diffuser screens, water filtration, breather vents, fuel cells, heat exchangers, particle classification.
**Benefits:** Uniform filtration, permeability, thermal stability, multi-layer construction, long service life.
#### Stainless Steel Wire Mesh
Stainless steel wire mesh is corrosion-resistant, strong, and adaptable. We offer over 135 varieties, including fine micronic mesh and sturdy welded options.
**Uses:** Filtration, screening, fencing, etc.
**Benefits:** Long lasting, adaptable, heat resistant, low maintenance, nonreactive.
#### Welded Stainless Wire Mesh
Welded stainless wire mesh is a robust and versatile material created by welding intersecting wires into a grid pattern.
**Uses:** Concrete reinforcement, food storage, infill panels, insulation, landscaping, chimney caps.
**Benefits:** Lightweight, durable, versatile, heat resistant, low maintenance.
### TWP Inc.’s Custom Wire Mesh Services & Resources
At TWP Inc., we offer a range of custom wire mesh services to meet your needs, including:
- **Wire Mesh Cleaning:** Ensures your product arrives clean and ready for use.
- **Precision Laser Cutting:** Offers accurate and efficient production of wire mesh components.
- **Mesh Measuring:** Advanced measuring services to guarantee accuracy.
- **Professional Slitting Services:** Ensures your material is precisely cut for various applications.
- **Custom Wire Mesh Filter Discs:** Tailored solutions for your specific needs.
### Trusted Supplier of Wire Mesh & Hardware Cloth Since 1969
TWP Inc. is a family-owned, woman-led business that has been serving hundreds of industrial organizations, builders, and DIYers worldwide since 1969. We are ISO 9001 certified and have been your go-to mesh experts for over 50 years. Contact us online or call (800) 227-1570 to learn more about our industrial-grade solutions.
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