To ensure the quality of flattened expanded metal in the production process, the following aspects need to be focused on:
Raw Material Selection
- Check the Quality of Base Metal: The base metal used for expanded metal should have uniform chemical composition and mechanical properties. For example, when using low - carbon steel, ensure that the carbon content is within the specified range to guarantee good formability and weldability. Regularly test the hardness, tensile strength, and elongation of the base metal to ensure they meet the required standards.
- Inspect the Surface Quality: The surface of the base metal should be free from defects such as cracks, scratches, and rust. Any surface imperfections can affect the final appearance and performance of the flattened expanded metal. Reject materials with obvious surface defects to prevent them from entering the production process.
Production Process Control
- Expansion Process:
- Adjust the Expansion Ratio Correctly: The expansion ratio directly affects the size and shape of the expanded metal mesh. Strictly control the expansion ratio according to the product requirements to ensure that the hole size, mesh size, and strand width of the expanded metal are within the specified tolerance range. Regularly measure and check the expansion ratio during production to make timely adjustments.
- Maintain Stable Equipment Operation: The expansion equipment should be in good working condition to ensure stable and consistent expansion. Regularly maintain and calibrate the equipment to prevent fluctuations in the expansion process caused by equipment failures. For example, check the pressure and speed of the expansion machine to ensure they are stable.
- Flattening Process:
- Control the Flattening Force and Temperature: The flattening force and temperature have a significant impact on the flatness and mechanical properties of the flattened expanded metal. Determine the appropriate flattening force and temperature according to the material and thickness of the expanded metal. Generally, for thinner expanded metal, a lower flattening force and temperature are required to avoid over - flattening and damage to the material. Continuously monitor and adjust the flattening force and temperature during the flattening process to ensure the best results.
- Use High - Quality Flattening Equipment: The flattening equipment should have high precision and stability to ensure that the expanded metal is evenly flattened. Regularly check and maintain the flattening rollers to ensure they are free from wear and deformation. Replace the rollers in a timely manner if any problems are found to ensure the quality of the flattened product.
Quality Inspection
- Visual Inspection: Conduct a visual inspection of the flattened expanded metal after production to check for surface defects such as burrs, cracks, and uneven flatness. Look for any signs of damage or deformation that may have occurred during the production process. Reject products with obvious visual defects.
- Dimensional Inspection: Use measuring tools such as calipers and rulers to measure the key dimensions of the flattened expanded metal, including hole size, mesh size, strand width, and overall dimensions. Ensure that these dimensions are within the specified tolerance range. Regularly sample and measure products during production to monitor the dimensional accuracy.
- Mechanical Property Testing: Perform mechanical property tests on the flattened expanded metal, such as tensile strength, elongation, and hardness tests. These tests can ensure that the product meets the required mechanical performance standards. For example, the tensile strength of the flattened expanded metal should be sufficient to withstand the intended use and load.
- Inspection of Coating and Surface Treatment: If the flattened expanded metal undergoes coating or surface treatment, such as galvanizing or painting, check the quality of the coating. Ensure that the coating is evenly distributed, free from peeling, blistering, or other defects. The thickness of the coating should also meet the specified requirements to provide good corrosion resistance and durability.