Expanded Metal Mesh Grades, Properties & Uses
Expanded metal mesh has become an essential material in Singapore’s construction, architectural, and industrial sectors. Known for its strength, versatility, and lightweight design, this material is widely used in building facades, security fencing, walkways, and ventilation panels.
At The Monster Builder, we supply high-quality expanded metal mesh in Singapore, tailored to meet the needs of modern infrastructure and architectural projects.
What Is Expanded Metal Mesh?
Expanded metal mesh is made by cutting and stretching a sheet of metal into a mesh pattern. This process forms diamond-shaped openings that provide excellent strength-to-weight ratio, without creating any welds or joints.
Unlike perforated sheets, expanded metal mesh uses a single continuous piece of metal, ensuring higher durability and resistance to deformation.
How It’s Made:
- A metal sheet (such as mild steel, aluminium, or stainless steel) is simultaneously slit and stretched.
- The result is a uniform mesh pattern with high rigidity and excellent airflow.
- No material is wasted, making it an eco-friendly and cost-effective option.
Common Grades and Sizes of Expanded Metal Mesh
Expanded metal mesh is available in different grades, materials, and thicknesses, depending on the intended use. In Singapore, the most common grades include:
Mild Steel Expanded Metal Mesh
- Common Grade: ASTM A36
- Typical Thickness: 1.2 mm – 5.0 mm
- Typical Mesh Size: 10 × 25 mm to 40 × 100 mm
- Usage Example: Popular in industrial flooring, stair treads, and machine guards due to its excellent strength and cost-effectiveness.
Aluminium Expanded Metal Mesh
- Common Grades: AA1100 / AA3003
- Typical Thickness: 1.0 mm – 3.0 mm
- Typical Mesh Size: 6 × 12 mm to 30 × 60 mm
- Usage Example: Favoured in architectural facades and sunshades for its lightweight nature, corrosion resistance, and modern appearance.
Stainless Steel Expanded Metal Mesh
- Common Grades: SS304 / SS316
- Typical Thickness: 0.8 mm – 4.0 mm
- Typical Mesh Size: 10 × 20 mm to 25 × 50 mm
- Usage Example: Ideal for coastal and outdoor environments in Singapore due to its superior corrosion resistance and durability.
For example, SS316 expanded metal mesh is often used in coastal or outdoor environments in Singapore because of its corrosion resistance against humidity and salt air. Meanwhile, mild steel mesh is preferred for industrial flooring or machine guards due to its cost-effectiveness and strength.
Key Properties of Expanded Metal Mesh
Expanded metal mesh offers a combination of mechanical strength, safety, and aesthetic flexibility, making it suitable for various industries.
1. High Strength-to-Weight Ratio
The expanding process increases structural rigidity, allowing lightweight sheets to support heavy loads.
2. Excellent Ventilation and Light Transmission
Its open pattern provides natural airflow and light penetration, ideal for façades and ventilation panels.
3. Corrosion and Weather Resistance
Grades like stainless steel 316 and aluminium perform well in Singapore’s humid, tropical climate.
4. Cost-Efficient and Sustainable
No metal is wasted during production, reducing both cost and environmental impact.
5. Customisable Patterns
Mesh openings, strand widths, and sheet sizes can be customised to match design or safety requirements.
Applications of Expanded Metal Mesh
Expanded metal mesh is used across multiple industries in Singapore. Below are some common applications:
1. Architecture and Facades
Used as decorative cladding or sunshades, expanded metal mesh enhances building aesthetics while improving energy efficiency.
Example: Retail buildings and MRT stations in Singapore often feature aluminium mesh panels for modern, ventilated designs.
2. Construction and Safety
In construction, it is used for walkways, stair treads, and fencing because it offers anti-slip surfaces and structural stability.
3. Industrial Uses
Factories and plants use expanded metal mesh for machine guards, filters, and cable trays, ensuring worker safety while maintaining airflow.
4. Security and Fencing
The mesh’s rigidity and visibility make it ideal for security enclosures, gates, and perimeter fencing.
5. Infrastructure
In transport and public utilities, expanded metal mesh is used for catwalks, platforms, and drainage covers.
Expanded Metal Mesh Supplier Singapore
Expanded metal mesh is more than just a construction material. It’s a versatile, durable, and eco-friendly solution for modern projects in Singapore. Whether you’re designing an architectural façade or building a factory walkway, choosing the right grade and supplier ensures long-term performance and safety.
When selecting a expanded metal mesh supplier in Singapore, consider these factors:
- Availability of multiple grades and materials
- Compliance with ASTM or equivalent standards
- Ability to provide custom cutting and fabrication
- Proven track record and local experience
At The Monster Builder, we offer:
- A wide range of mild steel, aluminium, and stainless steel expanded meshes
- Custom sizing and fabrication for architectural and industrial projects
- Local delivery and technical support across Singapore
The Monster Builder provides reliable, high-quality expanded metal mesh solutions in Singapore, tailored to your project’s needs. Contact us today to discuss your requirements or request a quotation for your next project.
