catwalk grating
Expanded Metal
Aluminum Expanded Metal Mesh
Lightweight, corrosion-resistant expanded metal in aluminum 3003-H14 and 5052-H32. Raised or flattened, high open area, easily anodized. Ideal for facades, sunshades, marine and transport uses.
Description
Product Introduction
Lightweight, corrosion-resistant expanded metal in aluminum 3003-H14 and 5052-H32. Raised or flattened, high open area, easily anodized. Ideal for facades, sunshades, marine and transport uses.
Product Introduction
Aluminum expanded metal is produced by slitting and stretching aluminum alloy sheet into a continuous diamond mesh, combining the structural efficiency of expanded metal with the light weight and natural corrosion resistance of aluminum. At roughly one-third the density of steel, aluminum panels are easy to lift, fabricate and install, which lowers both structural and handling costs. Zhongman manufactures aluminum expanded metal in the two most widely used alloys: 3003-H14, prized for excellent formability and good corrosion resistance, and 5052-H32, which offers higher strength and superior marine and atmospheric corrosion performance. Available in raised and flattened patterns across a broad range of diamond sizes and gauges, aluminum expanded metal serves wherever weight, weather resistance and a clean finish matter, from building facades to transport and filtration components.
Key Features & Advantages
Aluminum expanded metal's standout properties are its low weight and inherent corrosion resistance: a naturally forming oxide layer protects the metal without coatings, so panels resist weather, humidity and salt without rusting. The light mass eases shipping, handling and installation and reduces dead load on supporting structures, a real benefit for facades and vehicles. Alloy 3003-H14 forms readily for curved and folded panels, while 5052-H32 adds strength and excellent marine durability. Aluminum anodizes beautifully in a range of colors and is fully recyclable, supporting sustainable design. Like all expanded metal, the one-piece construction cannot unravel and gives uniform strength and a regular diamond pattern. High open areas allow ventilation, light and drainage, and the non-magnetic, non-sparking metal suits sensitive and hazardous environments.
Specifications & Options
Zhongman supplies aluminum expanded metal in 3003-H14 and 5052-H32 alloys, with diamond short-way dimensions from 3/16" to 2" and strand gauges from No.10 through No.22, yielding open areas from about 30% to 89%. Customers choose 3003 for general-purpose and decorative work requiring good formability, or 5052 where higher strength and marine corrosion resistance are needed. Both raised and flattened patterns are offered, the latter giving a smooth surface for visible installations. Finishes include mill, anodized in custom colors, and powder coating. Panels are available in standard 4ft x 8ft and custom sizes, cut, formed, framed or fabricated into facade cassettes and infill units. Because alloy and temper affect formability, we advise on the best combination for bending, welding or anodizing your specific design.
Applications & Industries
Aluminum expanded metal is favored wherever light weight and corrosion resistance are priorities. In architecture it forms ventilated facade panels, sunshades, brise-soleil, balcony infill and decorative screens that resist weather without heavy framing or repainting. The transport sector uses it for vehicle, trailer and rail components, walkways, steps, toolboxes and guards where reduced weight improves payload and efficiency. Marine and coastal applications rely on 5052 panels for boat decks, gangways and equipment screens that survive salt exposure. Its non-sparking, non-magnetic nature suits electronics shielding, filtration and ventilation in sensitive settings, while HVAC, lighting and appliance makers use it for grilles and diffusers. Aluminum mesh also appears in signage, furniture and display fixtures across the design and manufacturing industries.
Why Choose Zhongman
Zhongman expands aluminum 3003-H14 and 5052-H32 in-house, controlling diamond geometry, panel flatness and edge quality to deliver mesh ready for facade, transport or marine use. We understand how alloy and temper influence forming, welding and anodizing, and we guide customers to the right combination for their fabrication method and finish. Our services include anodizing, powder coating, cutting, forming and fabrication into framed panels and facade cassettes from your drawings. Direct aluminum sourcing keeps pricing competitive, and our packing and export team protect the soft metal from transit damage while meeting project schedules worldwide. Whether you need lightweight decorative screens or corrosion-proof functional panels, Zhongman provides quality aluminum expanded metal with the technical support to make installation straightforward.
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