EXPANDED METAL TERMINOLOGY

When specifying expanded metal, give complete specifications to avoid possible error. SWD is always given before LWD.

Example: 1/2" #18 Carbon Steel Standard
Diamond Pattern 4' SWD x 8' LWD

Design -- actual dimension SWD and LWD, measured from point-to-corresponding-point of the following design.

Flattened Expanded Metal (abbr. FXM) -- flattening turns the strand and bonds downward to provide a flat surface. It reduces the thickness (gauge) and stretches the pattern. Flattened expanded metal is limited to 72" in width. Flattened sheet thickness may vary 10%.

(LWD) -- nominal dimension Long Way of Design

(LWO) -- nominal dimension Long Way of Opening

Standard Expanded Metal (abbr. SXM) -- expanded metal as it comes off the machine

Strands -- the sides of the expanded metal design.

Strand Thickness -- gauge thickness of metal expanded

Strand Width -- amount of metal fed under dies to produce one strand

Strand Thickness and Width -- can be varied to create different openings. The width of the strands should equal or exceed the gauge of strand thickness.

(SWD) -- nominal dimension Short Way of Design

(SWO) -- nominal dimension Short Way of Opening

STANDARD -- EXPANDED METAL

Expanded metal is a rigid non-revealing piece of metal that has been slit and expanded (stretched), thereby reducing its weight (up to 80%) and producing a stronger and more rigid material. It is the answer to many design problems where the free passage of air, light or sound is a neccessary requirement. It can be galvanized, anodized, coated, painted or plated.

A series of numbers identifies a given style: First Number - designates nominal pitch short way of the design. Second Number - used in conjunction with the first number, specifies
the gauge of metal used.

FLATTENED -- EXPANDED METAL