Perforated Metal Sheets
Think Perforation, Think Graepels. Precision Perforation for Perfect Results
What Are Perforated Metal Sheets and What Are They Used For?
Perforated metal sheets are flat metal panels that have been mechanically pierced using specialised presses and precision tooling. The process involves a punch pressing through the material to create clean, accurate holes, referred to as perforations. This operation is repeated systematically until the desired area of the sheet is perforated. Perforated sheets can be produced to standard specifications or tailored to suit decorative or bespoke requirements. The size, shape, and arrangement of the holes define the type and function of the perforation.
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What Types of Perforated Metal Sheets Do We Offer?
Our perforated metal sheet services ensure there is the right option for every type of business or application on the market.
Standard Perforation
Standard perforations consist of uniformly sized and shaped holes punched into metal sheets. Common hole shapes for standard perforated sheets include; round, hexagonal, square, round-end slotted, square-end slotted, and diamond.
These sheets are typically selected for their functional performance rather than their appearance and are widely used across industrial, processing, and architectural applications.
Decorative/Bespoke Perforation
Unlike standard perforations, decorative metal perforation offers many more options when it comes to the configuration of the holes and sizes. At Graepels, we have a range of decorative patterns to choose from; these decorative perforations have been worked and developed to provide something a little more unique.
Alongside our decorative range, Graepels provides a fully bespoke service to meet your unique design and functional requirements. Our perforated metal sheets allow architects, designers, and artists to create unique patterns, or motifs that reflect the desired aesthetic.
Picture Perf
Picture Perf is a type of perforated metal sheet that Graepels has developed. After decades of honing our craft, we’ve distilled the process into a simple, step-by-step guide.
Graepels reproduce any image, graphic or photograph directly into metal through precise perforation, bringing it to life. It’s an excellent way to stand out, delivering striking, durable results that blend form and function. It’s the perfect solution for architects, fabricators and designers who want a distinctive aesthetic that’s built to last.
Alpha Perf
Much like Picture Perf, Alpha Perf is a unique product developed in-house using perforations to create lettering in the style of various fonts. It could be a company name, a slogan, or a room number, or a historical passage of text or poem.
Either way, you’ll certainly catch eyes, and it’s a brilliant modern touch and way for a commercial or public space to communicate something visually while also remaining fully legible.
Design & Order Your Perforated Metal Sheets in 4 Key Steps
It can be difficult to know where to start, or what to consider, but it’s best to consider perforated metal sheets in 4 key steps: the size and thickness of the sheet, the type of perforation you want, the material you’d like to use, and the profile of the perforation.
Then there are some additional factors to consider once these have been decided. Please note that these factors often depend on the application and industry, whether it be architecture, safety and security, agricultural, contruction, or interior design, just to name a few.
1. Sheet Size & Thickness
Standard Sizes: 1m x 2m, 1.25m x 2m, 1.5m x 3m, 4m x 2m (on request)
Material Thickness: Our standard sizing is 0.75mm – 12m and we can also go up to 20mm on request.
Note: We will always do our best to accommodate your requirements, so please don’t hesitate to get in touch if your sizing exceeds these general guides.
2. Type of Perforation Service
Choose from a wide variety of perforation types:
- Standard Perforation
- Decorative Perforation (patterns)
- Picture Perf (perforated images, graphics, photographs)
- Alpha Perf (letters/numbers)
- Bespoke Perforation
3. Material Selection
We manufacture using a wide range of metals: Aluminium, Stainless Steel (304, 316, others available), Mild Steel, Pre-Galvanised Steel, Brass, Copper, CORTEN (natural weathered finish), Bronze
Note: The choice of material may affect the available finishes and hole sizes. This is something we can help you with.
4. Perforation Shape, Size & Pattern
- Hole Shapes: Round, square, slotted, hexagonal, bespoke, decorative/picture perf
- Hole Size: From 0.5mm up to 154mm
- Open Area: Ranges from 20% to 60% (30–50% is typical)
- Pattern & Pitch: Dictated by the layout and spacing of holes. Custom layouts can be created.
Example: For folds along Straight Line of Holes (SLOH), a 60° pitch with 30° inclination is needed (this depends on metal type and grade).
Additional Considerations
Margins: Margins (blank/unperforated edges) can be included as required. Useful for framing or fabrication.
Fabrication Services: We offer full fabrication for clients who need more than just perforation, whether it be laser and cutting, forming, welding, bending, notching, levelling and flattening, or anything else.
Finishes: Many materials can be left unfinished e.g. CORTEN. However, we can also apply finishes depending on the type of material. Our team can advise on the most suitable options for your application.
The Benefits of Our Perforated Metal Sheets
- Durable, long-lasting
- Light panels and components are easier to work with/handle, and reduce transportation fuel and costs. Note: Depending on the material and thickness, this can change.
- In their solid state, Perforated Metal Sheets are smooth with a high strength ratio, especially when round holes are used.
- Versatile Product combining functional and aesthetics.
- Flexible for forming into three-dimensional shapes, which can increase strength and rigidity.
- Broad range of uses. Perforated Metal is ideal for a vast range of applications in a variety of different industry sectors.
For a list of common applications visit the application section of the website. For more information on the industry sectors served and the uses within each market visit the industry section of the website.
Graepels is Now CPD Accredited
Get In Touch to Discuss Your Needs
When it comes to perforated metal sheets, we want to make the process as easy and straightforward as possible. We have decades of experience, and our team is always on hand to answer any questions and point you in the right direction. Simply get in touch today and explore your options.