Architectural wire mesh is a one-of-a-kind design material that was introduced to the world of architecture not too long ago. From parking garages to the interior of performance art centers, architectural mesh creates an unforgettable atmosphere that visitors will love.
That said, there is some basic knowledge you need to know in order to ensure your next project stands out.
W.S. Tyler’s team of experts have helped architects all over the globe incorporate wire mesh for over 20 years and are eager to provide you with the know-how needed to optimize your architectural design process.
In this article, we will provide insight into some key terminology that will help you better understand architectural mesh, define the different weave types, define the forms in which mesh is available, and what you can expect to receive when ordering an architectural mesh system.
Warp: All wires running length wise in a roll of wire cloth. The name Warp wire comes from the fact that these are the wires that are fed into the weaving loom by the warp beam.
Weft/Shute: All wire running across the roll of wire cloth. These are the wires that are driven through the sets of warp wires by the rapier band during the weaving process.
Zero Aperture: The warp and weft wires in zero-aperture specifications lie as close as possible against each other.
Wire Diameter (d): The width of a given wire in the weave. Depending on the needs of your project, various wire diameters can be used in the same weave.
Open Area: is the percentage of the area of all apertures in the total surface area, or the ratio of the square of the nominal aperture width (w) to the square of the nominal pitch (p), rounded to a full percentage value.
Calendaring: The process of rolling woven wire mesh to a specified thickness while also creating a smooth surface.
Crimping: Sequenced curvature of a wire as a result of pre-deformation or weaving.
Pitch: the distance between the midpoints of two adjacent wires. Represents the sum of the aperture width (w) and wire diameter (d).
Clevis Hardware: Brackets that run along the top and bottom flat tension profiles of the mesh panels. These brackets are used to attach the mesh panels to the substructure.
Flat Tension Profile: The clamps located at the top and bottom of each panel used in the system. The flat tension profile is used to attach the mesh and clevis to each other.
Pressure Springs: Springs located at the bottom substructural frame that allows enough give to allow the mesh to flex to prevent damage when the wind hits it.
Intermediate Tube: Specifically placed support tubes the provide additional support throughout the length of the façade. They are designed to stop the panels from drifting, damaging the mesh.
Digital Printing: The transferring of complex graphics and pictures to architectural wire mesh. The visibility of the graphics depends on the wire mesh pattern as well as the viewing distance. For exterior applications, a protective, UV-resistant coating is used to prevent the environmental elements from damaging the imagery.
The term weave type refers to the way in which the warp and weft wires cross each other. It encompasses four different mesh categories: Woven wire, Cable, Fine, and Specialty.
All wire mesh façade systems come with everything you need to turn your vision into a reality. Each system includes:
• On-site delivery
We hope this article helped you gain a better understanding of some of the terms you have been hearing when working with architectural mesh suppliers.
It is important to remember that with all the customization options available, the only limitation of architectural mesh is your imagination. That said, it is recommended that you enroll in an AIA presentation to expand your knowledge on the possibilities of architectural mesh while also earning CEU credits.
Having worked in the world of architectural design, W.S. Tyler is here to ensure you make the most out of your architectural mesh solutions.
To learn more about how AIA presentations can benefit you, refer to our article: Becoming an Architectural Mesh Expert With AIA CEU Presentations.