A: There are many types of materials that can be made into expanded metal sheet. Aluminum expanded metal, carbon steel, galvanized steel, nickel, silver, copper, and stainless expanded metal sheets are available.

A: The percentage of open area determines the amount of space available for the passage of air, water, and light through the expanded metal sheet. This information is important for engineers to know based on the end application that the expanded metal sheet is used for.

A: Expanded metal is extremely diverse. One example of a common application is security mesh for the protection of industrial machinery and electrical equipment, or unwanted access to restricted areas. Some other applications for expanded metal include railing mesh, fences, vents, and shelves. Heavy carbon steel expanded metal can be used as stair treads for oil tanks, working platforms, corridors and walkways. Expanded metal is also used in the construction of roads, bridges, railways, ramps, and steel flooring.

A: The many small openings in the expanded metal material allow flow through of air, water, and light, while still providing a mechanical barrier to larger objects. Another advantage to using expanded metal as opposed to plain sheet metal is that the exposed edges of the expanded metal provide more traction, which has led to its use in catwalks or drainage covers.

A: SWD stands for Short Way of the Diamond and LWD stands for Long Way of the Diamond. These acronyms are used when ordering expanded metal sheet.

A: Fashion Wire Mesh offers an expansive inventory of expanded metal products, each with different pattern options, material types, and finishes. Therefore, it is best to call our sales department for pricing information. Our Fashion Wire Mesh team members are experts in our expanded metal inventory and can provide you with product recommendations.