Wire mesh can be made from a variety of materials, mainly selected based on the strength, corrosion resistance, and cost requirements of the application. Here are some common material classifications:
1. Metal Materials
Low-carbon steel wire: Low cost, moderate strength, widely used in common engineering applications such as building wall reinforcement and underfloor heating mesh.
Stainless steel wire: Strong corrosion resistance, suitable for high humidity, acid and alkaline environments, or long-term exposure. Common models include:
304 stainless steel: General purpose, good corrosion resistance, suitable for most outdoor and architectural decoration applications.
316L stainless steel: Contains molybdenum, increasing chloride ion corrosion resistance by 300%, particularly suitable for coastal areas, acid rain areas, or chemical environments.
Galvanized steel wire:
Hot-dip galvanized: Thick zinc layer (≥100g/㎡), long lifespan, suitable for humid areas, and the first choice for external wall insulation systems.
Electro-galvanized (cold galvanized): Thinner zinc layer, suitable for short-term protection or indoor use.
Drawn/Electro-galvanized Drawn Wire: Cold-drawn for higher strength, commonly used in high-strength welded wire mesh.
Black Iron Wire: Untreated for corrosion resistance, lowest price, only suitable for temporary structures or internal reinforcement.
2. Alloy Materials:
Aluminum Alloy: Lightweight and high-strength, with good corrosion resistance, mainly used for decorative wire mesh. Common types include:
1060 Pure Aluminum Plate: Good ductility, suitable for interior ceilings, curtain walls, and other decorative applications.
3003 Rust-proof Aluminum Plate: Added manganese improves weather resistance by over 30%, suitable for outdoor fences and municipal partitions.
5052 Alloy Aluminum Plate: Tensile strength ≥220MPa, salt spray resistance exceeding 3000 hours, used for industrial equipment protective covers and new energy battery heat dissipation shells.
Brass, Copper: Excellent electrical conductivity and decorative luster, often used in high-end building metal decorative mesh, such as hotel and museum facades.
3. Composite and Coated Materials
PVC-Coated Wire Mesh: Made with iron wire as the base material, coated with PVC, PE, or PP plastic. It features acid and alkali resistance, aging resistance, and colorfastness, and is widely used in fencing, decoration, and machinery protection.
Dip-Coated/Powder-Coated Wire Mesh: A plastic protective layer is formed on the surface of the metal wire mesh, enhancing corrosion resistance and aesthetics. Commonly used in outdoor facilities such as residential fences and traffic safety barriers.