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Expanded Metal

Manufactured from a single sheet of metal via a specialized press, expanded metal, also referred to as x-metal, is versatile and utilized for a range of commercial and industrial applications. O’Neal Steel supplies stainless and hot rolled steel expanded metal.

Industries We Serve

Expanded metal is commonly used in applications such as platforms or walkways where long-term durability is required. It’s also a great choice for instances where enclosures need to be secure but transparent. Depending on the thickness of the x-metal, the material can absorb a tremendous amount of wear while retaining its structural integrity. Based on the size of the openings, it can also permit a significant amount of visibility which is a necessity in industrial environments.

Due to its adaptability, expanded metal is used in various industries such as:

  • Metal Fabrication
  • Conveyor Equipment Manufacturing
  • Construction Machinery Manufacturing
  • Motor Vehicle Body Manufacturing
  • Agricultural Equipment Manufacturing

    Your X-Metal Supplier

    With over 100 years of experience in the metals industry, O'Neal Steel is your trusted expanded metal supplier. Our team is committed to service excellence and ready to assist with all of your material needs. Are you ready to work together? Contact us now!

    We also offer a full range of processing services to fulfill all of your metal needs. Learn more about our entire lineup of value-added services here

  • O'Neal Steel XMETAL Icon

    Expanded Metal Defined

    Most commonly recognized for its X-shaped pattern, expanded metal offers some unique advantages over other types of steel mesh. Expanded metal is formed by slicing multiple slits in a single metal sheet and then stretching the material.

    Expanded metal mesh isn’t woven or welded. As a result, expanded metal retains significant structural integrity, which translates into exceptional strength, a major consideration for projects where durability is a requirement.

    For interior enclosures or environments where exposure to the elements is minimal, painted or coated, hot rolled expanded metal can be applied. For an attractive appearance or for areas where rust is a major challenge, stainless steel x-metal may be utilized.

    O’Neal Steel supplies hot rolled and 304 expanded metal in a range of dimensions and thicknesses, with custom cutting also available. Contact our team today to request a quote for your next project.

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    Expanded Metal Metal Types

    Hot Rolled

    HOT ROLLED STEEL VS. COLD-FINISHED STEEL

    There are many differences between hot rolled and cold-finished steel. The first is the process. Hot rolled steel goes through one high heat treatment process, while cold-finished steel requires further processing. After cooling to room temperature, cold-finished steel is then rolled again. This additional treatment process results in a stronger metal that can be used for more precise applications or projects that require a smoother aesthetic appearance. Compared to cold-finished steel, hot rolled steel surfaces are rougher. Hot rolled steel is typically used in applications where precise shapes and tolerances are not critical.

    HOT ROLLED GRADES WE CARRY

    • 1008/20
    • 1018
    • 1020/26
    • 1045
    • 4140/42
    • A1011
    • A36
    • A500
    • A513
    • A572
    • A992
    • AR235

    Browse our vast inventory of hot rolled steel products in PRONTO® today!

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    Stainless Steel

    304 vs. 316 STAINLESS STEEL

    The most common stainless steel alloys are 304 and 316/316L. 304 stainless steel is easy to form, weld, stamp, machine, and fabricate. It holds a high resistance to temperature and corrosion. This material also scores high on the strength index. Stainless steel is very easy to clean and is ideal for industries that demand high sanitation and frequent washing. 316 holds the same resistance, toughness, and strength properties as 304. The difference between 304 and 316 stainless steel is their elements. 304 is 18% chromium and 8% nickel. 316 is 16% chromium, 10% nickel, and 2% molybdenum. 316 also offers more protection against pitting.

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    GRADES OF STAINLESS STEEL

    • 304/304L
    • 316/316L
    • 303
    • 1045

    Explore our stainless steel grade selection, chat with metal experts, and request a quote in PRONTO®.

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