Pre-Galvanized Perforated Metal
Perforating pre galv, involves punching holes into galvanized steel sheets, which are coated with a layer of zinc to prevent corrosion. The perforation allows for various applications including filtration, ventilation, and decorative purposes while retaining the material’s corrosion-resistant properties.
The material is versatile and durable and is suitable for indoor and outdoor use, due to its strength and resistance to corrosion. It can be an economical and reliable choice for industrial, creative and design industries.
Benefits of Pre-galvanized Perforated Metal
Corrosion Resistance: The steel is coated in zinc before perforating and provides protection against corrosion.
Durability: Pre-galv is durable and can withstand harsh and humid environments, zinc adheres well to steel ensuring long lasting protection.
Cost Effective: Pre-galvanized steel can be more cost effective than post galvanizing like Hot Dip Galvanizing, although this is an excellent finish and an excellent solution in some applications its does have limitations. Including hole sizes. Visit our section on hot dip galvanizing for more information on issues and limitations. Pre-galv is typically less expensive and simplifies production which can affect overall costs.
Applications
- Architectural: Used in facades, sunscreens, and decorative elements.
- Industrial: Utilized for ventilation, filtration, and safety guards as it can withstand harsh conditions. Example: Machinery guards and industrial filters.
- Automotive: Employed in grilles and protective covers, as well as other components where strength and rust resistance are critical. It can also be used in steps and ladder rungs and other areas in transport that require access and underfoot safety.
- Construction: Applied in flooring, fencing, balustrade, and partitioning.
- Agricultural: Applied in equipment that operates in corrosive environments such as farms and processing plants. Example: Grain sieves and livestock panels that need to endure exposure to moisture and chemicals.
A note on finishing for pre galv., with powder coating, see powder coating under our ‘finishes’ section on our website for more detailed information.
Powder Coating pre-galv is often used where an additional layer of protection is required. However, pre-galv is often used as an alternative to more expensive material, while powder coating may give an aesthetic finish due to the range of colours and textures that are not available through galvanizing alone, it does add an additional cost and therefore is something to keep in mind where costs are an issue.
Pre-Galvanized Wire
Pre-galvanized (pre-galv) woven wire mesh refers to wire mesh made from wire that has been galvanized before the weaving process. Galvanization is the process of applying a protective zinc coating to steel or iron to prevent rust and corrosion. There are two main methods of galvanization: hot-dip galvanizing and electro-galvanizing. Pre-galvanized wire typically involves hot-dip galvanizing.
Key Properties and Advantages of Pre-Galvanized Woven Wire Mesh
Zinc Coating: The zinc coating provides a protective barrier that prevents moisture and oxygen from reaching the underlying steel, thus reducing the risk of rust and corrosion.
Longevity: Pre-Galv wire lifespan is longer, making it suitable for outdoor and harsh environmental conditions.
Efficiency: Pre-galvanizing wire before weaving is often more cost-effective than galvanizing the entire mesh after weaving. This is because it can be done in bulk and the process is faster.
Material Cost: The overall cost of pre-galvanized wire mesh is usually lower than post-galvanized wire mesh.
Smooth Surface: The smooth, galvanized surface reduces friction and makes the wire easier to handle and install, especially important in applications where the mesh will be moved or manipulated frequently.
It is essential that galvanized coating needs to be properly cleaned and etched to ensure good adhesion.
Comparison to Post-Galvanized Woven Wire Mesh
Benefits of Pre-Galv Wire:
Durability: This makes the wire mesh suitable for outdoor use and in environments where exposure to the elements is a concern, extending the lifespan of the mesh.
Appearance: Pre-galvanized wire has a shiny, silver finish due to the zinc coating, which can be desirable for decorative and architectural applications where appearance matters.
Multiple Applications: Pre-galvanized wire mesh can be used in various applications, including fencing, construction, industrial processes, and decorative projects. Its versatility makes it a popular choice across different industries.
Applications of Pre-Galvanized Wire
Industrial Applications: Filtration, screening, and separation processes in industries such as mining, oil refining, and chemical processing. Resists corrosion from exposure to harsh materials and environments, ensuring reliable performance.
Enclosures: Cages, enclosures, exterior partitions, or screens. Provides a strong, secure enclosure while maintaining an attractive appearance.
Decorative and Architectural: Utilized in modern architecture for facades, infill panels, and interior design elements. The shiny, silver finish adds to the aesthetic appeal. It provides a sleek, modern look while offering durability and minimal maintenance.
Summary of Key Differences:
Corrosion Resistance: Stainless steel, copper, and aluminum offer excellent corrosion resistance.
Tensile Strength: High tensile wire offers the greatest strength, making it ideal for high-stress
applications. Aluminum has a wide range of tensile strengths depending on the alloy but is less strong than high tensile wire.
Cost: Pre-galvanized wire is one of the most cost-effective, while stainless steel and copper are more expensive due to their superior properties and processing requirements. Aluminum is moderately priced and less expensive than stainless steel and copper.
Weight: Aluminum is the lightest among the materials, making it ideal for applications where weight reduction is crucial.
Aesthetic Appeal: Stainless steel and copper offer distinctive, attractive finishes, with stainless steel providing a sleek, modern look and copper a unique reddish-brown appearance. Corten steel offers a rustic, weathered look, and aluminum offers a clean, silvery appearance.
Applications: Each material has specific uses based on its properties. Pre-galvanized wire and High Tensile are versatile for widespread use and for heavy-duty needs, stainless steel is good for high-durability and corrosion-resistant applications, Corten for aesthetic and durable outdoor structures, copper for electrical and aesthetic applications, and aluminum for lightweight, corrosion-resistant applications.