Quick answer. Put the diamond pitch and the clear opening on separate lines in the drawing. SWD and LWD describe the short and long directions of the repeating pattern. SWO and LWO describe the clear space inside one opening. Add an arrow that ties the long diamond direction to a named edge of the finished panel.
Separate repeat dimensions from clear opening
Measure the design size from a point on one diamond to the corresponding point on the next diamond in the stated direction. This repeat dimension includes the material between openings. For SWO or LWO, show the two inside edges used to measure the unobstructed space within one opening.
A quotation that gives only a diamond size leaves the measurement basis open. Ask the supplier to label the pitch and the clear opening separately. If minimum clear opening matters to your design, mark it as a minimum on the finished panel and agree how it will be measured. A nominal pitch alone does not establish minimum opening or percentage open area.
Tie the diamond direction to the finished panel
Label the panel length and width independently of the short and long diamond axes. For a cut panel, add a datum edge and state which diamond axis runs parallel to it. A rectangular blank can have the right outline with the pattern turned 90 degrees relative to the frame. If the raised profile must face a particular side, identify the viewed face or show a section.
Example drawing note. “View from Face A. Long way of diamond parallel to datum edge A. Record pitch and clear opening separately on the approved finished panel.” Replace the face and datum labels with the ones on the project drawing.
Check dimensions in the ordered condition
State whether the mesh is raised or flattened. Confirm the finished opening, strand width and overall profile thickness in that condition. Identify the base-sheet thickness separately so the supplier and receiving inspector can distinguish it from the finished profile depth. If a panel fits a frame, agree whether open cut diamonds are acceptable at each edge or whether the drawing requires a cut along bonds or another edge treatment.
Agree on the inspection face, measuring points, acceptable ranges and any sample panel needed before batch release. For an open-area requirement, identify whether it applies to the repeating field or the whole panel including borders. Record the agreed basis on the drawing or inspection plan.
Send these fields with the RFQ
- Material and form. Titanium grade, starting-sheet specification and revision, and raised or flattened expanded mesh.
- Pattern and opening. SWD and LWD as repeat dimensions, plus SWO and LWO with measurement points and any minimum values.
- Section and panel. Strand width, base-sheet thickness, finished overall thickness, cut dimensions, datum, viewed face and edge condition.
- Verification. Required open-area basis, drawing revision, inspection plan, quantity and lot documentation.
Ask the supplier to mark any proposed difference from the drawing on the quotation. Compare offers against the same finished dimensions, orientation and inspection basis before approving a sample.
Review the Titanium Expanded Metal Mesh product page for Grade 1, Grade 2 or a specified titanium alloy. Include the drawing revision, panel dimensions and opening requirements with the inquiry for review.
Discuss expanded mesh drawing requirements