Wire Mesh FAQs for Products, Costs & Shipping – TWP Inc.

(11) Technical Definitions & Standards

What is mesh count?

Mesh count refers to the number of openings per linear inch in a wire mesh. For example, a 10 mesh has 10 openings per inch, while a 50 mesh has 50 openings per inch. A higher mesh count means smaller openings and finer filtration, while a lower mesh count means larger openings and coarser mesh.

How is open area calculated?

Open area is the percentage of the mesh that is open space (not wire). It's calculated by measuring the total open space in the mesh and dividing it by the total area of the mesh, then converting that result into a percentage.

A higher open area means more airflow or liquid flow, while a lower open area means more filtration and less flow.

What is wire diameter (wire gauge)?

Wire diameter is the thickness of the wire used to make the mesh. Wire gauge is a standard way to describe that thickness.

In general, a higher gauge number means thinner wire, and a lower gauge number means thicker wire. The wire diameter affects strength, stiffness, and how much open area the mesh has.

How do I measure mesh accurately?

The most accurate way to measure mesh is to use a ruler or caliper to measure the opening size (clear space between wires) and the wire diameter. Measure several openings across the mesh and average the results, since woven mesh can vary slightly.

If you need a precise measurement or want help confirming your mesh specs, TWP offers measuring services. We also provide custom, in-house laser cutting to ensure your mesh fits your exact requirements.

What is a micron and how big is it?

A micron (also called a micrometer) is a unit of length in the metric system, equal to one millionth of a meter or 0.00003937 inches. To put it in perspective, a human hair is about 50–100 microns thick.

Micron measurements are commonly used in wire mesh and filtration to describe the size of the openings or the smallest particles the mesh can retain. Understanding microns helps you choose the right mesh for screening, filtration, or precision applications.

What does your "opening in microns nominal" mean?

A nominal micron rating describes the approximate size of the smallest particle a filter or mesh can retain, expressed in microns. Specifically, it represents the particle diameter that the filter captures with 60–90% efficiency, rather than guaranteeing complete removal.

For example: A 10-micron nominal rating can capture most particles around 10 microns, but some may pass through.

This rating helps compare mesh or filter performance for filtration, screening, or separation applications.

What is a "Square Foot" and a "Linear Foot"?

A square foot is a unit of measurement of area. A piece of material measuring 12 inches by 12 inches is one square foot. To compute the number of square feet in a piece of wire mesh you multiply its width in feet times its length in feet. For example, a piece of wire mesh 4 feet wide and 3 feet long would be 12 square feet. A linear foot (sometimes called a running foot) just measures length. One linear foot equals one foot long, no matter how wide the material is. So if something is 3 feet wide and 15 feet long, it's 15 linear feet. That same piece is 45 square feet when you factor in the width (3 ×... Read more

What is ASTM E2016-22 and why does it matter for woven wire mesh?

ASTM E2016-22 is a standard that defines the requirements for industrial woven wire fabric (wire cloth) used to separate particles or screen materials. It covers properties such as wire diameter, mesh count, weave type, and tolerance, and applies to wire made from suitable metals or alloys. This standard ensures that the mesh you purchase meets consistent quality and performance expectations for industrial or laboratory applications. If you need a copy of ASTM E2016-22, it can be purchased directly from the ASTM... Read more

What kind of mesh should I use for sifting or sizing a solid?

Sifting and sizing is generally done using a plain square weave wire mesh or a welded stainless mesh. Archeological digs have used our galvanized meshes for sifting purposes. Twilled weaves are not suitable for sizing or sifting because they do not have straight-through holes.

What is an Absolute Filtration Rating?

An Absolute Filtration Rating specifies the particle size, in microns, that a filter or mesh can retain essentially 100% of the time. While nominal ratings measure partial retention, the absolute rating indicates the smallest particle the filter will reliably stop. In practice, manufacturers often define absolute ratings based on 98–99.999999% retention, depending on testing standards. This rating is useful when precise particle removal is critical, such as in laboratory, industrial, or high-precision filtration... Read more

What is the opening structure of a Dutch weave mesh and how does it work?

A Dutch weave mesh has a unique structure where the wires are woven so that there are no straight-through square openings. Instead, the openings form narrow, triangular or tortuous pathways, causing liquids or air to follow a winding path through the mesh. This design allows Dutch weave mesh to filter fine particles more effectively than standard woven mesh while maintaining strength and stability. It is commonly used in precision filtration, chemical processing, and laboratory applications where controlled flow and particle retention are... Read more