• Specify the size sheet required, listing SWD ( Short Way of Diamond) first, LWD (Long Way of Diamond) second.
  Example: 4'0" SWD x 8'0" LWD
   
• Specify the number of sheets or pieces required.
   
• Specify the nominal width of the diamond SWD
  Example: 3/16", 1/4", 1/2", 3/4", 1", 1 1/2", 2"
   
• Specify the style of the sheet
  Example: #18, #20, #16, #13, #9
   
• Specify R (Regular), F (Flattened)
   
• Specify the type of metal required
  Example: Carbon steel, Stainless steel, Aluminum, etc.

Example of typical order:
100 SHEETS...3/4"...#9F
4'-0" X 8'-0" CARBON STEEL

Flattened Expanded Metal

Each sheet is expanded in the regular form and then passed through a cold rolled reducing mill. In this process the length of the sheet is elongated - usually about 5% - but the width of the sheet remains the same. The sheet is then sent through a leveler to maintain its flatness.

Typical applications of flattened expanded metal include protecting enclosures, shelving, and ramps.

Standard Expanded Metal

The illustration to the right shows that the strands and bonds form a sharp angle to the original plane of the solid sheet.