For micro expanded metal mesh in 304 Stainless Steel, the controlling selection factors are the media being filtered, the cleaning regime and the service temperature. The grade data for 304 Stainless Steel is summarized below together with every specification supplied.
Why Choose 304 Stainless Steel for Micro Expanded Metal Mesh
The standard general-purpose stainless mesh alloy. For micro expanded metal mesh, this matters when good general corrosion resistance in atmosphere and fresh water is the controlling requirement.
Alloy Properties
| Grade designation | AISI 304 (1.4301) |
|---|---|
| Magnetic response | Essentially non-magnetic (annealed) |
| Service temperature | approx. +450 °C continuous |
| Corrosion characteristic | Good general corrosion resistance in atmosphere and fresh water |
Corrosion Behavior in Filtration Service
304 gives good resistance to atmospheric exposure, fresh water and most neutral media, and is the standard general-purpose grade for micro expanded metal mesh. In chloride-bearing service (seawater, brines, road-salt spray) step up to 316L; in reducing acids consider a nickel alloy.
Comparable Alloys
The direct upgrade from 304 is 316L (chlorides, acids, CIP). Downgrade options for dry, indoor screening are galvanized or plain steel. For heat beyond ~450 °C move to Inconel 600; for seawater immersion consider Monel 400 or duplex 2205 for micro expanded metal mesh.
Specifications of Micro Expanded Metal Mesh Available in 304 Stainless Steel
| Mesh designation (SWD x LWD) | SWD (mm) | LWD (mm) | Strand width (mm) | Strand thickness (mm) | Open area (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0x2.0 | 1.0 | 2.0 | 0.3 | 0.3 | 45 |
| 1.5x3.0 | 1.5 | 3.0 | 0.4 | 0.3 | 50 |
| 2.0x4.0 | 2.0 | 4.0 | 0.5 | 0.4 | 52 |
| 3.0x6.0 | 3.0 | 6.0 | 0.6 | 0.5 | 55 |