Wire Mesh Open Area Calculator

How to use this result

Open area is geometric porosity. It is not the same as tested flow capacity or pressure drop.

What to confirm

Submit the result with the application, dimensions, quantity and operating conditions if you want a human specification check.

Projected opening is not tested flow

For square mesh, the clear-opening ratio is squared. For rectangular mesh, the X and Y clear-opening ratios are calculated separately and multiplied. The wire dimension belongs to the corresponding pitch direction.

Worked interpretation

Geometric open area helps compare constructions, but it does not include fluid viscosity, cloth thickness, crimp, entrance loss, support screens, fouling or cake formation. Do not turn this percentage directly into pressure drop or filtration capacity.

Before you put the result on a purchase order

Confirm the construction and weave, nominal geometry, material grade, finished width and length, edge treatment, quantity, tolerance basis and inspection documents. State whether values are nominal, minimum or maximum. For a replacement part, add a drawing or labeled photographs and explain the observed failure mode.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Mixing millimetres, micrometres and inches without recording the conversion.
• Assuming a calculated combination is automatically stocked or manufacturable.
• Using nominal open area as filtration efficiency, pressure drop or structural capacity.
• Leaving material certificates, tolerances, edges and finished dimensions until after quotation.

Save the input and output with the RFQ so another reviewer can reproduce the calculation. If the duty is critical, use a sample, drawing review or process test before releasing production.