描述
Expanded metal products consist of sheets or coils of solid metal that feature a diamond pattern that vary by gauge, type of material, and size of the diamond. The term “expanded metal” refers to the way the metal is simultaneously die-cut and expanded as it moves through the progressive dies on a press. This process allows it to be expanded up to 10 times its original size, while losing up to 80 percent of its original weight per square foot and retaining its form and rigidity.
Choose from Three Expanded Metal Types
HC Metal offers three varieties of expanded metal to meet the needs of companies in a broad range of industries:
Standard Expanded Metal (SXM)
Standard expanded metal, or raised metal, is a finished product that comes from the press after having been die-cut and expanded. The strands and bonds form a sharp angle to the original plane of the solid sheet. This standard type provides maximum flexibility for adapting the open area percentage to meet the project requirements. Read more…
Flattened Expanded Metal (FXM)
Flattened expanded metal is a standard expanded metal product that has been cold rolled leaving a flat, smooth surface. This flat version is also about 5% lighter than the standard version, making it well-suited for applications requiring agility, while still maintaining maximum strength and durability. Architects frequently choose the flattened version when designing ornamental accents. Read more…
Expanded Metal Grating
Expanded metal grating is a heavy-duty expanded metal produced from a carbon steel sheet and plate. This metal grating contains no joints or welds, as each sheet is a single piece of sturdy steel. They are easy to install and maintain while offering a more economical alternative to traditional bar grating materials. Carbon steel expanded metal sheet grating creates a stable, slip-resistant surface on stairs, platforms, catwalks, and pedestrian walkways. Read more…
Uses & Applications
Expanded metal’s strength, versatility and other beneficial properties enable it to be used for a wide range of industrial and manufacturing applications, including:
- Architectural interior partitions and barriers
- Architectural for a building’s facade
- Expanded metal security fencing is a security fence that not only provides protection but also has an elegant look with its uniform structure and rigidity. It is widely used for blocking climbing and keeping out trespassers and thieves.
- EMI/RFI Shielding
- Security mesh a/c covers
- Window, door, and skylight guards
- Walkways, mezzanines, catwalks, stairways, and ramps
- Air intake screens
- Expanded metal infill panels used in all industries
- Cab/truck dividers
- Concrete reinforcement
- Drive and sidewalk grates
- Light diffusers
- Anti-slip flooring such as maintenance platforms and billboard platforms
- Machine guards
Characteristics
Despite its relatively lightweight, expanded metal is stronger than other wire mesh materials of similar weight. Because the material is flattened, it can remain as one piece instead of being welded or fused together as separate components. This eliminates the creation of seams that could come apart at some point during the product’s lifespan.
While expanded metal products typically exhibit a diamond-shaped pattern — which provides excellent energy absorption and resistance to deformation — it’s possible to achieve circular and square configurations. The angle of the placement of the shape plays an important role in the performance of the product. For instance, a zero angle will create straight lines across the sheet, resulting in greater strength when compressing the sheet on its side.
Expanded metal’s versatility makes it suitable for use with numerous metal materials. Aluminum, carbon and stainless steel expanded metal sheets are all widely used in the manufacturing of products as diverse as security fencing, air intake screens, patio furniture, and machine guards. You’ll also find heavy gauge expanded metal products for applications that demand maximum strength, as well as coated expanded metal materials that offer additional corrosion protection.