Mesh Size, Mesh to Micron Comparison chart | Kramer Inc

 

Whether you're dealing with filtration, sieving, screen printing, or material classification, mesh size plays a critical role. But what exactly is mesh size, and how does it impact your work or product quality?

In this blog post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about mesh size—how it’s defined, how it’s measured, and why it matters in various industries.


What Is Mesh Size?

Mesh size refers to the number of openings per linear inch in a screen or sieve. It is typically used to describe the size of openings in materials like wire mesh, filter cloth, or screen printing screens.

For example:

     A 10 mesh screen has 10 openings per inch.

     A 100 mesh screen has 100 openings per inch.

The higher the mesh number, the smaller the openings—and the finer the particles it can filter or capture.


Mesh Size vs. Particle Size

Although mesh size gives a general sense of particle size, it’s not an exact measurement. That’s because wire diameter and weaving style also influence the size of the openings.

A common comparison is:

     4 mesh = particles about the size of pebbles.

     40 mesh = coarse sand.

     200 mesh = fine powder.

For precise control, industries often refer to micron size (μm) alongside mesh size. One micron is one-thousandth of a millimeter.


Common Mesh Size Applications

Mesh size is crucial in many industries:

1. Construction & Mining

Used for grading aggregate materials, mesh screens help ensure consistent sizing of sand, gravel, and crushed stone.

2. Filtration

In water treatment or air filtration, the mesh size dictates the level of contaminants removed. For example, a 400 mesh filter might trap extremely fine particles, suitable for cleanrooms or labs.

3. Pharmaceuticals

Mesh screens help sort powders to a specific fineness, ensuring uniform mixing and tablet consistency.

4. Screen Printing

The choice of mesh size affects ink flow and print detail. A 110 mesh might be used for printing bold text, while a 305 mesh is better for high-resolution images.


How to Choose the Right Mesh Size

Consider these factors:

     Material being filtered or sorted – Fine powders need higher mesh numbers.

     Flow rate – Smaller mesh sizes reduce flow.

     Durability – Thinner wires in fine meshes may wear faster.

     Application-specific standards – Follow any industry guidelines for mesh specs.


Mesh Size Conversion Chart (Mesh to Micron)

Mesh Size

Micron Equivalent (approx.)

10

2000 μm

60

250 μm

100

150 μm

200

75 μm

400

37 μm

Note: Values may vary depending on wire thickness and weave style.


Final Thoughts

Mesh size might seem like a simple number, but it has a big impact on performance, product quality, and efficiency in many processes. Whether you're screening materials, filtering liquids, or printing designs, understanding mesh size ensures you make informed decisions.


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