Today I learned : Metal Grating

What is Grating:

Metal grating is a framework made from metal bars, plates or mesh arranged in a grid pattern. It allows for the passage of light, air and water while providing a strong platform.

Types of Gratings:

1. Bar Grating:

Bar grating is composed of a series of parallel bars joined by perpendicular crossbars connected using methods like welding, riveting, or press-locking. Bar grating is the most common type of metal grating.

2. Expanded Metal Grating:

Expanded metal grating created by cutting and stretching a sheet of metal, resulting in a mesh with diamond-shaped openings. The resulting diamond-shaped pattern creates a slip-resistant surface.

3. Wire Mesh Grating:

Wire Mesh Grating is produced by using rows and columns of intersecting steel wires forming a grid-like pattern. This grating offers excellent load-bearing capacity due to its grid structure.

4. Safety Grating:

Safety grating features a serrated or perforated surface that is created by forming and punching the grating. The primary function of safety grating is to prevent slips and falls, especially in wet or oily conditions.

Functionality of Metal Grating:

1. Structural Support: Metal grating provides a strong and stable platform, capable of supporting significant weight. It’s commonly used in walkways, platforms, and mezzanines.
2. Drainage and Ventilation: The open design of metal grating allows for efficient drainage and airflow, making it ideal for outdoor applications and environments requiring ventilation.
3. Safety: Specific types of grating, such as safety grating, offer enhanced slip resistance, which is crucial in preventing accidents in wet or oily conditions.
4. Weight Reduction: Metal grating offers a high strength-to-weight ratio, making it an excellent choice for applications where minimizing weight is essential.
5. Corrosion Resistance: Grating made from materials like stainless steel or aluminum is highly resistant to corrosion, suitable for use in harsh environments.

Applications of Metal Grating

1. Industrial Flooring: Metal grating is extensively used in factories, warehouses, and plants, providing durable and safe flooring solutions.
2. Drain Covers and Trench Grates: The open structure of metal grating makes it perfect for covering drains and trenches, allowing water to pass through while keeping debris out.
3. Stair Treads: Metal grating is often used for stair treads, providing a non-slip surface that enhances safety in both indoor and outdoor staircases.
4. Marine and Offshore Platforms: The durability and corrosion resistance of metal grating make it suitable for marine environments, where it is used on ships, offshore platforms, and docks.
5. Public Infrastructure: Metal grating is used in various public infrastructure projects, including pedestrian bridges, park benches, and street furniture.

Sources :

What is Metal Grating? Types and Uses of Metal Gratings – What Is Piping