In the construction industry, wire mesh is a versatile building material that provides support to concrete structures, prevents cracking, and allows for reinforcement. It can be made from a variety of metals and has different applications for contractors, including highway maintenance, building temporary retaining walls, and more.
It is also used in construction to reinforce concrete beams during the pouring process. This is often accomplished by using reinforced steel bars, but welded wire mesh offers contractors a more affordable alternative because it’s strong and quick to install. It also helps prevent concrete fractures from developing, especially in mud- or hole-ridden areas. Contractors may additionally use it for strengthening concrete structures while building coal mine tunnels, airport runways, house floors, and walls.
Generally, wire mesh is constructed from metals like copper, brass, silver, aluminum, stainless steel, or iron. Typically, it’s woven or welded into a particular structure and is available in a wide range of specifications for each specific application. Its characteristics depend on the weave pattern, opening size, and metallurgical properties of the base metal. For example, a non-crimped wire is usually made with a simple over-under pattern for the weft and warp wires, giving it a plain square appearance. Its strength is based on the amount of weft and warp wires as well as their diameters.
Wire mesh is commonly used in manufacturing facilities, such as factories and warehouses. The multiple openings in woven wire mesh allow light, air, and sound to pass through relatively unobstructed, improving visibility, circulation, and ventilation. It also prevents large debris and materials from bouncing off equipment or employees. The open design can even help maintain a direct line of sight for facility security personnel, making it easier to act during an emergency.
Welded wire mesh is also used in a number of different applications, such as manufacturing, mining, and forestry. This type of wire mesh is generally made from metals that are able to withstand corrosion from chemicals, acids, alkaline solutions, and abrasions. Depending on the manufacturer, it can be constructed from a number of alloys, such as copper, brass, or nickel.
Wire mesh is also a popular choice for contractors when it comes to building retaining walls in construction projects. This is because it’s an inexpensive, durable, and effective way to prevent soil erosion. It can also be used as a substitute for barricades and security fences during highway construction, to keep the construction site safe from unauthorized personnel, or as a way to provide a temporary solution for holding workers’ supplies on construction sites. For instance, contractors may use wire mesh to create storage racks for workers’ gloves, hard hats, goggles, safety vests, and other materials. This makes it easy to organize supplies and locate them quickly during a project. Lawrence Sintered Metals can help you select the right wire mesh for your needs. Contact us today to learn more about the practical ways that we can help you use this versatile product.