What do SWD and LWD mean?
They describe the diamond opening. SWD is the short way of the diamond, the smaller dimension, and LWD is the long way. Together with the strand width and sheet thickness they define the mesh pattern and its strength.
One-piece plate mesh
Expanded Metal Mesh
Expanded mesh is cut and stretched from a single metal plate, so there are no welded joints and no loose strands. The result is a rigid, one-piece sheet that ventilates, drains and resists slipping.
›SWD: 10–50 mm | LWD: 25–100 mm
›Strand width: 1.0–5.0 mm
›Sheet thickness: 0.5–6.0 mm
›Material: steel, galvanized steel or aluminium
›Pattern: raised (standard) or flattened
›Cutting, bending and framing available
Also known as: Expanded sheet · Diamond plate mesh · Stretched metal · Raised expanded mesh
Specification Parameters
Typical range. Final dimensions, coating mass and tolerances are confirmed on the order drawing.
| SWD (short way of diamond) | 10–50 mm |
|---|---|
| LWD (long way of diamond) | 25–100 mm |
| Strand width | 1.0–5.0 mm |
| Sheet thickness | 0.5–6.0 mm |
| Material | Mild steel, galvanized steel, stainless steel or aluminium |
| Pattern | Raised (standard) or flattened for a smooth surface |
| Surface finish | Mill, hot-dip galvanized, painted or powder coated |
| Fabrication | Sheets cut to size; bending, framing and edge trimming available |
| Packing | Flat bundles with edge protection |
Construction Details
Mild steel
General screens, guards and frames
Galvanized steel
Outdoor walkways, platforms and facades
Stainless steel
Corrosive or high-hygiene environments
Materials & Coating Options
| Mild steel | General screens, guards and frames |
|---|---|
| Galvanized steel | Outdoor walkways, platforms and facades |
| Stainless steel | Corrosive or high-hygiene environments |
| Aluminium | Lightweight facades and decorative panels |
| Finish options | Mill, hot-dip galvanized, painted or powder coated |
Typical Applications
Walkways and platforms
Typical configuration
Raised pattern, 3–5 mm strand, galvanized
Slip-resistant surface that drains and ventilates.
Machine guards and fencing
Typical configuration
Small SWD, 1.5–3 mm strand
Rigid one-piece guard with good visibility.
Building facades and screens
Typical configuration
Flattened pattern, aluminium or galvanized
Decorative screening and sunshade panels.
Filters, racks and shelving
Typical configuration
Light gauge, small diamond
Ventilated support surfaces and retainers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between raised and flattened mesh?
Raised mesh comes straight off the press with the strands angled, giving a slip-resistant surface and maximum stiffness. Flattened mesh is rolled after expansion, giving a smooth, thinner sheet used where a flat face or a decorative appearance is required.
Why choose expanded mesh over welded mesh?
Because it is one piece, it cannot unravel and it holds its shape when cut. It also uses less material for the same stiffness, which makes it economical for guards, platforms and facades.
Related Products
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