Steel Wire Mesh: Understanding the Basics

Steel Wire Mesh is a versatile and useful material made by welding wires together to form a square pattern. This type of material has a variety of applications, from construction and industrial uses to household and decorative purposes. In this blog post, we will explore the basics of wire mesh, including how it is made, the different types of wire mesh, how it is used, and what type of wire is used to make it.

How is Steel Wire Mesh Made?

Steel mesh is produced using a series of processes, starting with the creation of wire. Wires are typically made from carbon steel, stainless steel, aluminum, brass, or copper. Once the wire is created, it is woven together to form a mesh pattern. The process of weaving the wire together can be done by hand or by machine. Oregon Wire carries carbon steel wire mesh, available for pick up today.

If the steel mesh is being made by machine, it is done using pre-programmed machines. These machines weld the wire together according to the desired mesh pattern, with the most common patterns being square, rectangular, and diamond. The mesh is then cut to size and the edges are finished to create a smooth and clean edge.

Different Types of Steel Mesh

There are many different types of wire mesh, each with its own unique properties and uses. Some of the most common types of wire mesh include:

Welded Steel Wire Mesh: This type of mesh is made by welding the wire together at each intersection, creating a strong and stable mesh pattern. It is commonly used in construction and industrial applications.


Woven Wire Mesh: This type of mesh is made by weaving the wire together to form a mesh pattern. It is commonly used in filtration, screening, and sieving applications.


Expanded Metal Mesh: This type of mesh is made by stretching metal sheets to create a mesh pattern. It is commonly used for security purposes and as a decorative material.


Perforated Metal Mesh: This type of mesh is made by punching holes into a metal sheet to create a mesh pattern. It is commonly used for filtration and ventilation purposes.


How is Steel Wire Mesh Used?

Wire mesh has a variety of uses, ranging from construction and industrial applications to household and decorative purposes. Some of the most common uses of wire mesh include:

  • Construction: Wire mesh is used in construction as reinforcement for concrete and as a decorative material.
  • Industrial: Wire mesh is used in industrial applications for filtration, screening, sieving, and as a protective barrier.
  • Household: Wire mesh is used in household applications for storage, organization, and as a decorative material.
  • Decorative: Wire mesh is used in decorative applications for its unique appearance and versatility.

Cost Effective Solution

Wire mesh is a cost-effective solution for many applications and provides a number of benefits over traditional solid materials. For example, wire mesh is lighter, more flexible, and easier to install than solid materials, making it a popular choice for construction and industrial applications.

Steel wire mesh is also highly customizable, as it can be made in a variety of mesh patterns and wire thicknesses to suit the specific needs of the application. Additionally, wire mesh is easily cut and bent, allowing it to be formed into a variety of shapes and sizes.

When choosing wire mesh for a specific application, it is important to consider factors such as the required strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion. The type of wire used, the mesh pattern, and the wire thickness will all affect the properties of the wire mesh, so it is important to choose the right material for the specific needs of the application.

In addition to its practical applications, wire mesh also has a number of aesthetic uses. For example, wire mesh can be used as a decorative material, adding a unique and modern look to a variety of spaces. Whether used for practical or aesthetic purposes, wire mesh is a versatile and cost-effective material with a wide range of applications.

In conclusion, wire mesh is a versatile and useful material that provides a number of benefits over traditional solid materials. With its lightweight, customizable, and cost-effective properties, wire mesh is a popular choice for a wide range of applications, from construction and industrial uses to household and decorative purposes. Whether you are looking for a practical solution or a unique decorative touch, wire mesh is a material worth considering.

Oregon Wire carries plain steel wire mesh in 8′ x 20′ sheets and has it available to pick-up the same day.  Oregon Wire sells to the home do-it-yourself guy as well as large construction companies and will sell one sheet or a truck load.  Give our team a call at 503-255-2522 or email [email protected] for a quote today.

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