Top Uses Of Perforated Metal
At first glance, perforated metal appears to be a simple product. After all, it’s nothing more than a sheet of aluminum, steel, copper or other metallic material punched with a series of holes, shapes or slots. However, that simplicity hides a world of potential. Numerous industries use it to perform a wide variety of functions in their operations. Some of its uses are necessary for filtering materials. Others involve protecting people and components from hazardous environments. In some cases, it can be purely decorative. No matter how it is used, perforated metal can be found in a myriad of industries ranging from industrial manufacturing to food and beverage production.
In the automotive sector, for example, it is valued for the durability it brings to certain components without adding an excessive amount of weight. Thanks to its flexibility and strength, it often is used to fabricate running boards, air intakes and grilles. In the world of architecture and construction, it is utilized frequently as paneling on a building’s facade. Not only does it look striking, but it also helps reduce energy consumption by reflecting heat while allowing daylight to enter. For more of the common ways in which perforated metal helps numerous markets, read on or download our guide.
Transportation
Car, truck, bus and other transportation manufacturers depend on perforated metal to provide strength and durability without adding a substantial amount of weight to their vehicles. Being able to create a grille or filter from a single perforated piece of metal can improve airflow for proper ventilation.
Some applications in this sector include:
- Grilles
- Muffler guards
- Heat shields
- Air intake/ventilation screens
- Muffler internals
- Tread plate
Construction/Architecture
Perforated metal sheets bring functionality and aesthetic value to construction projects. Not only does this material have the potential to add a unique look, but it also contributes to the sustainability of a building. For instance, it can absorb heat from the sun while still allowing daylight inside, reducing the need for air conditioning and artificial lighting.
Key architectural elements that can be made using these materials include:
- Signs
- Stairs
- Facade panels
- Vent covers
Food and Beverage
Modern food production requires a lot of processing, and perforated metal can perform many functions in this context. With the ability to control the size of the perforations, it can be used to sift fine particulates, filter solids out of liquids or control airflow.
Common uses for these products include:
- Restaurant equipment
- Baking pans
- Ventilation hoods
Manufacturing
Managing airflow, liquids and heat through machinery are critical for many industrial processes. Perforated metal can contribute to this in a major way by forming screens, filters and sorters. Another significant application of these materials is their ability to soundproof heavy equipment. This helps protect operators’ hearing and reduces accidents that can be caused by excessive noise.
Popular uses in manufacturing include:
- Soundproofing
- Sorting
- Filters
- Heat shields
Noise Control
Noise control systems rely on perforated metal for protection or decorative screens. This is because sound waves can travel straight through the perforated metal without changing in any way. The sounds are then transferred to materials inside that reflect, scatter or absorb the sound waves without distortion.
Some examples of noise control systems in action include:
- Ceiling panels
- Speaker grills
- Highway sound barriers
- Music room wall panels
Retail Displays
Due to its light weight, durability and versatility, perforated metal often is used for fabricating retail shelving and display systems. Perforated metal can be used to create shelves, wall units and other components for a modular system that could be configured easily to fit retailers’ spaces.
Examples of these products include:
- Display racks
- Shelves
- Wall fixtures
- Retail Displays
Download the guide.
