Expanded metal converts solid sheet or plate metals into a material of regular diamond-shaped openings joined by continuous, uniform, strands. The simultaneous slitting and stretching process generates a one piece expanded material with essentially no scrap. The result is a strong, structurally sound, non-raveling metal product that permits the passage of heat, fluids, lights, sound and air.
The expanded metal manufacturing process advances sheet or plate beyond the face of a flat bottom die in an amount equal to the strand width before flattening. The top die then descends to slit and cold form an entire row of half diamonds. The top die ascends and oscillates one half diamond as the base sheet advances one strand width. The top die descends again, forming another half diamond completing a row of full diamonds in two strokes. The top die then returns to its original position and the process repeats until a full sheet is completed.

Although there are standard designs, expanded metal is infinitely variable in pattern and can be specified to achieve whatever characteristics are most critical. Increased pattern size alters open area and improves cost effectiveness. Varied strand width changes appearance and weight. Un-flattened expanded metal provides strength and rigidity. Flattening smoothes the surface.
No scrap and no raveling set expanded metal apart from either perforated metal or wire cloth, making it both more economical and easier to handle. Its ability to be engineered to specific applications yields a product uniquely suited to its end use.