If you’re a business owner, you’re probably looking for better ways to improve your operations, products, or services. The next time these thoughts creep in, consider trying stainless steel mesh. There are several ways organizations in different sectors could use this versatile material, and you could make it useful for your business too.
If you’re wondering what stainless steel is and why you should consider it, this article will answer that question and explore how your business could benefit from this wire mesh.
What Is A Stainless Steel Mesh?
Stainless steel mesh is basically wire mesh that’s made using some special wire weaving technology. The wires used generally have a diameter of 12 µm to 7 mm, depending on the stainless steel alloy used. In industries, a metal mesh screen is typically used in filtration and separation.
Did you know that steel is an alloy? Steel is made from different elements, with the most common being a combination of carbon and iron. Although iron is strong, it, unfortunately, rusts easily, which makes it difficult to use for several reasons.
Though iron is strong and sturdy, it also easily rusts, making it difficult to use for a number of purposes. This is where stainless steel comes in handy. What makes it special is it’s rust-resistant.
Properties Of Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is produced from iron and at least 11.5% of chromium. Stainless steel production usually includes carbon, silicon, manganese, and sometimes molybdenum and nickel. Chromium is the main ingredient that converts regular steel into stainless steel. As highlighted earlier, iron tends to rust, which at times makes it rather inconvenient to use, especially in humid environments.
Rusting occurs when steel oxidizes when it’s subjected to air or moisture. When iron rusts, it becomes weak and warped. However, in the case of stainless steel, it may oxidize, but the film of chromium helps prevent any corrosion. This makes it ideal for use anywhere, including in moist environments. Therefore, this may be one of the reasons a stainless steel mesh screen could be one of the most useful mesh options for any business.
The mesh structure is composed of wires welded at each intersection to improve its strength. The durability of the steel mesh makes it ideal for industrial procedures. It withstands high temperatures and many other weather conditions.
Stainless Steel Mesh In Various Industries
Stainless steel mesh comes in a variety of forms and styles. Each has some practical applications for businesses across sectors. Here are some industries that commonly use aluminum steel mesh:
1. Beverage Industry
The stainless steel bolting cloth is commonly found in the food and beverage industry as well as the mining sector. You may come across it in pharmaceutical and chemical environments as well.
The bolting cloth mesh is known to be low maintenance and very durable. It has a larger usable area than most other commercial-grade stainless steel meshes. This makes it great for high throughput.
2. Chemical Industry
The Hollander mesh is also known as the Dutch weave mesh. It’s normally used when filtering fine liquid. It’s also used in industries that handle high-pressure filtration. This type of mesh is typically used in the aerospace, petrochemical, and pharmaceutical industries. It’s also sometimes used in wastewater treatment facilities because of its low-pressure loss and high flow rates.
3. Manufacturing And Processing
The woven wire mesh is a commercial-grade mesh often used for filtration purposes. It’s a high-strength mesh that could benefit your manufacturing business. It has a low impact on the environment, and it’s designed for long-term use.
The woven wire mesh is also used for sieving and screening. It’s no surprise that it can be found in businesses to do with food processing and drying.
4. Food Preparation
Stainless steel mesh can also be used in the preparation and processing of food. It’s used for things like deep frying, barbecue grilling, and domed food covers. Some businesses in the food industry use the mesh for high-quality wire baskets. If you’re in the food industry, then you know how important wire mesh is.
5. Oil Fields and Refineries
The ability of stainless steel mesh to withstand heat and pressure makes it ideal for use in oil refineries. The crude oil refining process involves some harsh chemicals and high temperatures, which could cause some forms of metals to corrode. Stainless steel mesh, therefore, is the preferred metal for withstanding the harsh refinery conditions.
6. Construction And Building
Stainless steel wire mesh has been a staple product in the construction industry for decades. While the construction industry has evolved significantly over the years, stainless steel wire mesh remains part of construction equipment. Some of the applications for steel wire mesh in the construction industry include the following:
- Wall retention
- Road maintenance
- Safety guards
- Protective gear
- Enclosures
- Infills
7. Agriculture
For centuries, steel mesh has been used on farms. It’s been used for things like fencing, crop protection, and patching. Stainless steel wire mesh is popularly used for various other agricultural tasks such as:
- Barriers
- Compost bins
- Fencing
- planters
- Sifting
- Chicken coops
- Pest control
- Protective gear
- Equipment repairs
8. Other Uses
There are several other kinds of steel mesh that businesses could utilize. For example, to protect yourself from bushfires, you could use bush fire mesh. Your business could also try specialty window mesh for insect protection.
Your business could also think of the many other creative possibilities for using durable, reliable stainless steel mesh. Who knows, it could help increase your productivity or be useful in establishing new products. Experiment with the material and see how it can benefit you.
Conclusion
There are different types of wire mesh, but one of the most popular ones is the stainless steel mesh. It’s quite popular due to its durability, versatility, and universal ability to be used in numerous industries.
The uses of stainless steel wire mesh are almost endless. You could use steel mesh for pretty much anything your creative mind allows. Consider the ideas mentioned here as you utilize them in your business operations.
