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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.