Welded wire mesh is a trendy item, and there are hundreds of thousands of uses for it. You have ever found yourself browsing the internet for this product, or you have been to a hardware store or supplier looking for welded wire mesh, then one thing is sure you may be surprised how many different types of weld are available. Below, we will detail four factors to consider before buying Welded Wire Mesh.
Mesh Opening
The welded wire mesh’s opening is often referred to as size or gauge, and it can vary greatly. The mesh opening will change your product’s strength, durability, and life expectancy.
Number of Weaves
The number of weaves will change the strength and durability, but not quite the same way that mesh opening will. A tighter weave will generally withstand more weight before breaking or coming apart.
Material Thickness
Material thickness can have a big impact on two things: cost and overall strength. The thinner the material is, the less durable it will be and the more prone to corrosion or rust. Thicker materials will generally last longer but cost more money.
Material Type
This may seem like an odd category, but there are several different types of welded wire mesh. These include stainless steel, galvanized steel, plastic-coated, and vinyl-coated.
Types of Welded Mesh Wires
Several different types of welded wire mesh, and each has its unique properties that make them ideal for specific applications. Generally speaking, the heavier duty or more protective mesh will generally be more prominent in size because you want to provide as much protection as possible. Listed below are a few common types of welded wire mesh.
- Woven Wire Mesh
Unlike traditional welded wire mesh, woven wire mesh is not constructed with wires running in the same direction. Generally speaking, this mesh type will offer more protection than standard welded wire mesh while still providing relatively high visibility. For example, Woven Mesh can protect items or people behind it without obscuring vision. It also provides a higher degree of protection against wind or weather.
- Chainmail Ring Mesh
Chainmail Ring Mesh is similar to Woven Wire Mesh because not constructed from wires running in the same direction, but there are a few key differences. This mesh can make of steel rings that interlock and run perpendicularly. This mesh will allow air and water while still providing durability and strength. Additionally, the welded rings offer an alternative to woven wire mesh in that they are not as likely to catch on things or snag clothing while providing better protection at the same time.
Chainmail ring meshes may use for protective gloves, sleeves, aprons, leg guards, etc. The holes are large enough to allow the material to breathe and be comfortable but small enough to prevent any objects or materials from getting through. This mesh is available in protective clothing worn by welders, mechanics, etc.
- Hex Wire Mesh
The wires make of straight wires, which run parallel to each other. Every few inches, the wires come with a weld. The spaces in between are generally more prominent than in standard wire mesh. This mesh type is available for decorative purposes since it provides visibility without sacrificing too much strength.
However, hex wire mesh does not protect against wind or water very well and can rust easily when exposed to the elements.
- Square Wire Mesh
Unlike standard welded wire mesh, square wire mesh has straight wires running in two directions to form squares rather than rectangles. Square wire mesh is often used in making cages because it is easy to bend into various shapes but does not easily roll back into a rectangle when bent too far. It also provides excellent visibility while being relatively strong.
