Steel Grates
Metal grates are available in a wide variety of shapes, mesh types, bar dimensions and capabilities in terms of load bearing and strength.
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Design of Steel Grates
Metal grates provide a surface which, in addition to being high-strength, allows the passage of light, air, liquid and small debris through it. This weight-to-strength ratio is important for many uses of metal grating and varies depending on the material used for the grates. Steel is a strong metal which is ideal for use in the construction of metal grates. They can be constructed according to specific requirements and design constrictions and can vary in terms of dimensions, types, style and capacity. Steel grating may be made of expanded metal or bar grating. These are the two methods used in the construction of grates from any metal and both methods provide strong and durable grating options. Expanded metal is created by perforating a steel sheet and stretching it to form diamond-shaped openings. Bar grating, on the other hand, is made from steel bars that have been welded, swaged, pressure-locked, or riveted together. Stainless steel is commonly used due to its high corrosion resistance; however steel can be coated and/or galvanized to increase its anti-corrosion properties and allow it to be used in applications coming into contact with moisture and corrosive substances.
Applications of Steel Grates
Steel grates are lattices or frames constructed of parallel and crossed bars or of perforated metal sheets which provide semi-open surface or a slip-resistant covering for floors and stairs. Steel grates are common fixtures in industrial and commercial settings for applications in sectors such as food and beverage processing, marine and oil rigs, factories and manufacturing plants.
Mezzanines, walkways, sidewalks and drain grates are typically heavy duty applications for steel grates and so grates used for these purposes will be high strength and durable. Light duty applications include grills, grids, filters and stair treads, although these products too require impact resistance and durability. Steel grates can also be used to cover storm drains and sewers or serve as a protective wall around machines and heaters. Metal grates are also used in roadway applications to provide structural support for resurfacing and paving because of their bi-directional strength. Outdoor applications such as ramps, walkways and stairs also use steel grates because of their high strength and impact resistance. In factory floors, where the floor must be kept free of debris and liquids and a non-slip surface is necessary, steel grates offer an ideal solution.