5mm Round Aluminium Perforated Panel | 8mm Pitch x 1.25mm Thick

Aluminium Perforated Panel

Top quality aluminium perforated panel supplied straight from Warrington, UK.

With an 8mm pitch and 1.25mm thickness, Speciality Metals offers a 5mm Round Aluminium Perforated Panel. As a result, this panel is ideal for using in a wide variety of applications due to its excellent hygiene properties. It features odorlessness, durability and lightweight properties, making it easy to handle. Furthermore, it is a good conductor of thermal and electrical energy, which makes it a very versatile material. Panels made of this material are corrosion resistant, meaning they will last for a long time in any environment. A further feature of this panel is its malleability, which allows it to be customised for specific applications. If you are searching for a high-quality aluminium perforated panel, this panel is a reliable and efficient choice.

Specifications:

• Metal – Aluminium
• Hole Shape – Round
• Aperture – 2mm
• Pitch – 3.5mm 
• Web – 1.5mm
• Thickness – 1mm
• Open Area – 29.61% Open Area

We also are the exact suppliers for you because:

• FREE UK delivery on all orders
• Order dispatch within 24 hours of order
• Located in Warrington, UK which is the UK home of mesh and metals
• Our experienced staff are experts in the mesh market and care personally about your customer experience

Furthermore we stock a vast range of plain sheet metal options that compliment our mesh range perfectly.

FAQs About This Product

Are There Health and Safety Guidelines when Working with Aluminum Perforated Metal?

Yes, there are health and safety guidelines to consider when working with aluminum perforated metal. Following these guidelines ensures the safety of individuals and prevents potential health risks or injuries. Here are some key guidelines:

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

   • Safety Glasses: Essential to protect eyes from flying debris or metal shavings.
   • Gloves: Protect hands from sharp edges and reduce the risk of cuts or abrasions.
   • Ear Protection: Especially important when using loud machinery or tools.
   • Dust Mask or Respirator: To prevent inhalation of fine aluminum particles, especially during grinding or cutting.

2. Handling and Storage:

   • Store sheets vertically or in a way that minimises bending or distortion.
   • Use appropriate lifting techniques and equipment when handling large or heavy sheets to avoid strains and injuries.
   • Keep the workspace free from metal offcuts and shavings to prevent slips, trips or falls.

3. Machining and Cutting:

   • Always use tools that are in good condition and designed for cutting or working with metal.
   • Secure the metal properly before cutting or machining to prevent movement.
   • Regularly check equipment and tools for wear and replace them as needed.

4. Chemical Exposure:

   • When using chemicals to clean or treat aluminum, always work in a well-ventilated area and use appropriate PPE, such as gloves and safety goggles.
   • Be aware of the potential for chemical reactions between aluminum and certain chemicals. For example, aluminum can react with strong acids or bases.

5. Electrical Safety:

   • If welding or using electrical tools, ensure that all equipment is properly grounded.
   • Be cautious of the high thermal conductivity of aluminum; it can heat up quickly when welded or cut, posing a burn risk.

6. Fire Safety:

   • While aluminum itself isn’t highly flammable, fine aluminum dust or shavings (often produced during machining) can be a fire hazard. Always work in areas free of open flames or sparks when producing aluminum dust.
   • Have appropriate fire extinguishers on hand in areas where aluminum work is being done.

7. Training:

   • Ensure that all individuals working with aluminum perforated metal are adequately trained in the safe operation of tools and equipment and are familiar with safety protocols.

Can Aluminum Perforated Mesh Withstand High Temperatures?

Aluminum perforated mesh can withstand elevated temperatures, but its suitability for high-temperature applications depends on the specific temperature range and duration of exposure. Aluminum begins to soften at temperatures around 400°F (204°C) and can lose a significant amount of its tensile strength as it approaches its melting point, which is approximately 1,221°F (660°C) for pure aluminum. However, different alloys of aluminum might have varied temperature resistance. While it doesn’t catch fire or combust at high temperatures, its structural integrity can be compromised.

In applications where the aluminum mesh might be exposed to continuous high temperatures, it’s essential to consider potential material deformation, especially if the mesh is supporting any weight or is under tension. For short-term exposures or applications where temperatures remain below the softening point, the aluminum perforated mesh should perform adequately.

Furthermore, the rapid heat conduction property of aluminum can be an advantage or disadvantage depending on the application. It can help dissipate heat quickly but can also mean that the entire mesh heats up rapidly. In scenarios where high-temperature resistance is critical, it might be prudent to consider other materials like stainless steel or to use specialised high-temperature aluminum alloys. Always consult with experts or manufacturers when considering aluminum for high-temperature applications to ensure its suitability.

What are the Maintenance Recommendations for Aluminium Perforated Sheet in Coastal Areas?

Maintenance of aluminum perforated sheets in coastal areas is essential due to the exposure to salt-laden air, which can accelerate corrosion. Here are some recommendations to ensure the longevity and aesthetics of the aluminum sheets in such environments:

1. Regular Cleaning:

   • Periodically rinse the aluminum sheet with fresh water to remove salt deposits. This can prevent the accumulation of salt, which can lead to pitting corrosion.
   • For more thorough cleaning, use a mild detergent solution and a soft brush or cloth. After washing, rinse thoroughly with fresh water and dry if possible.

2. Protective Coatings:

   • Applying a protective coating or sealant can offer an additional barrier against the corrosive effects of the marine environment.
   • If the aluminum is painted or powder-coated, ensure that the coating is specifically designed for marine or coastal applications. Reapply or touch up coatings as necessary.

3. Inspection:

   • Regularly inspect the aluminum sheets for signs of corrosion, discoloration or damage. Early detection allows for timely intervention and repair, thus preventing more extensive damage.
   • Pay special attention to areas where the aluminum may be in contact with other metals, as this can lead to galvanic corrosion.

4. Avoid Contact with Dissimilar Metals:

   • Aluminum can corrode when in direct contact with certain metals, like copper or steel, especially in a salty environment. Use plastic or rubber washers or spacers to prevent direct contact when fastening or installing.

5. Corrosion Protection:

   • Consider using corrosion-resistant alloys suited for marine environments, such as 5052 or 6061, which have better resistance to saltwater corrosion than some other aluminum alloys.
   • If corrosion spots do appear, clean the area and apply a corrosion inhibitor or protective coating.

6. Shelter:

   • If possible, install the perforated sheets in areas where they’re shielded from direct exposure to sea spray or salt-laden winds. Overhanging eaves, walls or other structures can provide some protection.

7. Hardware and Fasteners:

   • Use stainless steel or marine-grade fasteners, which resist corrosion in salty conditions. Avoid using steel or other corrosive metals which can cause staining and galvanic corrosion when in contact with aluminum.

8. Controlled Environment:

   • If used indoors in coastal areas, ensure that spaces are well-ventilated to prevent the accumulation of salty moisture, which can still cause corrosion over time.

Is There a Risk of Oxidation with Aluminum Perforated Mesh?

When aluminum perforated mesh is exposed to oxygen, it oxidizes, forming a thin protective layer of aluminum oxide on its surface. This oxidation process, unlike the rusting seen in metals like iron, serves as a beneficial shield for aluminum. This aluminum oxide layer acts as a resilient barrier, safeguarding the underlying metal from further oxidation. If scratched or damaged, the aluminum surface quickly reforms this protective oxide layer. However, challenges can arise in certain environments: coastal areas with salty air can lead to pitting corrosion, while direct contact with metals like copper can cause galvanic corrosion. Additionally, prolonged exposure to pollutants or aggressive elements can dull or discolor the aluminum’s appearance. To enhance the lifespan and appearance of the mesh, regular cleaning, the application of protective coatings and avoiding contact with dissimilar metals are recommended practices.

Check out our blog discussing What is Perforated Mesh. It will prove a useful read to help you to make an informed decision on which material would work best for you. 

We are also very proud of our ever expanding YouTube channel. 

Our goal for our blogs, videos and help guides is to answer as many questions as possible to help to explain the possibilities of mesh to our customers.  Contact us today if you have any questions at all. We are always really keen to help in any way that we can.

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