Open Mesh Steel Grating – Specs, Benefits & Ordering Guide

Open mesh steel grating is a load‑bearing floor system made from welded steel bars that form a rectangular mesh, offering high slip resistance and excellent drainage. NLS Industries supplies it in standard sizes, custom dimensions, and both plain and galvanized finishes, ready for immediate shipment across Saudi Arabia.

What is open mesh steel grating?

Open mesh steel grating consists of parallel load‑bearing bars (also called bearing bars) that are welded to a series of cross‑bars, creating a grid‑like pattern. The open spaces allow liquids, debris, and air to pass through, which makes it ideal for industrial floors, walkways, and drainage channels. The steel is typically hot‑rolled, giving the product a high tensile strength that can support loads from 1 ton to 30 tons per square meter, depending on bar size and spacing.

Key specifications and dimensions

Typical bearing bar sizes range from 6 mm to 25 mm in thickness, with widths of 30 mm, 50 mm, or 75 mm. Cross‑bars are usually 6 mm to 12 mm thick. Standard panel dimensions are 1 m × 2 m, but NLS Industries can cut panels to 600 mm × 1 200 mm, 1 200 mm × 2 400 mm, or any custom size required by the project. The open area ratio – the percentage of void space – commonly falls between 40 % and 70 %, influencing drainage capacity and slip resistance. Load tables are provided for each configuration, allowing engineers to match the grating to the expected live load.

Galvanized grating vs other finishes

Galvanized grating receives a zinc coating of 55 µm to 275 µm, which protects the steel from corrosion in harsh environments such as coastal plants, petrochemical facilities, and wastewater treatment sites. Compared with plain (uncoated) steel, galvanized grating can last 15 years longer in a salty atmosphere. If the installation is indoors, a plain finish may be sufficient and more cost‑effective. For areas exposed to chemicals, a higher zinc thickness or a stainless‑steel option should be considered. The choice impacts both initial cost and long‑term maintenance.

Selecting the right grating for your project

1. Identify the load class – light traffic (up to 2 t/m²), medium (2‑5 t/m²), or heavy (above 5 t/m²). 2. Determine the required open area – drainage channels need at least 60 % openness. 3. Choose the finish – galvanized for outdoor or corrosive settings, plain for dry indoor use. 4. Check compatibility with supporting structures – the grating should be anchored to steel beams, concrete, or a welded frame using appropriate fasteners. NLS Industries offers a Steel Gratings catalogue that lists all available profiles and load tables.

Ordering process with NLS Industries

Contact our sales team via phone or email with the following details: required dimensions, load class, finish preference, and delivery location. Our engineers will confirm the specification within 2 working days and provide a quotation that includes unit price (SAR 150‑ 350 per square meter, depending on size and finish) and lead time (typically 10‑14 days for standard panels, 20 days for custom cuts). Once the order is approved, we arrange freight through a local carrier; most customers in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam receive the shipment within 3 days after dispatch. After delivery, our technical support can advise on installation best practices and recommend suitable Steel & Structural Materials accessories such as edge supports and anti‑slip pads.

Maintenance and safety considerations

Regular inspection is advised every six months, especially in high‑traffic zones. Look for signs of corrosion, loose fasteners, or deformation of bearing bars. Clean the grating with a pressure washer to remove debris; avoid abrasive pads that could damage the zinc coating. When used as a walking surface, combine the grating with anti‑slip pads or rubber inserts to meet Saudi occupational safety standards. For projects that require additional protection, NLS Industries also supplies Safety Equipment & PPE such as safety shoes and helmets.

FAQ

How thick should the zinc coating be for coastal installations?

A coating of 275 µm (galvanized grade G90) is recommended for environments with high salt exposure. It provides a longer service life than the standard 55 µm coating.

Can open mesh steel grating be used as a fire‑resistant floor?

The steel itself is non‑combustible, but fire‑rating depends on the supporting structure and any insulation layers. Pair the grating with fire‑rated decking if a certified fire rating is required.

What is the typical load capacity for a 12 mm × 50 mm bearing bar?

With a 50 mm width and 12 mm thickness, the panel can support up to 8 tons per square meter when spaced at 30 mm intervals. Refer to the load tables for exact values.

How do I request a custom size?

Send the required length, width, bar dimensions, and finish to our sales email. Our engineering team will issue a quote within two business days and confirm the production schedule.