Wire Mesh Opening & Open Area Calculator
Enter a mesh count and wire diameter to instantly get the opening size (inches, mm, microns) and the percent open area. Standard square-weave woven mesh.
Opening = (1 ÷ mesh) − wire diameter · Open area = (opening × mesh)² · 1 in = 25,400 µm
How it works
Mesh count is the number of openings per linear inch. The clear opening between wires is one inch divided by the mesh count, minus the wire diameter — so for the same mesh, thicker wire means a smaller opening and lower open area. Filtration is usually specified in microns; open area affects flow and visibility.
Not sure of the wire diameter? Standard mill weaves have typical diameters per mesh — see our mesh-to-micron chart, or check any product's spec sheet. Need a custom wire diameter? We can weave it.
Found the mesh you need?
We stock 1–500 mesh and cut to size.