HAVE A PROJECT THAT REQUIRES RAPID DESIGN AND APPLICATION SUPPORT? LET'S TALK

Metal Mesh Air Filters

Washable, Reusable Metal Mesh Filters for Harsh Environments

Metal mesh air filters are a washable, reusable filtration option built for demanding environments. Constructed from expanded aluminum media, these filters combine dust arrestance with integrated EMI shielding in a single assembly.

They’re designed for outdoor enclosures, industrial equipment, and applications where disposable filters aren’t practical. Available in all standard frame configurations, from roll-formed channels to ultra-thin stamped sheet metal, each filter is built to your specifications.

Metal Mesh air filters offer a semi-permanent, cleanable air filtration solution, suited for outdoor environments, with integrated EMI shielding capabilities. 

Metal Mesh filters are ideal for use in harsh environments where rugged, washable and reusable filters are most appropriate. Metal Mesh filters are available in all frame configurations, from roll-formed channels to ultra-thin stamped sheet metal.

Download Tech Bulletin
Contact a Specialist
See All 3D CAD Models

More Information

Each Metal Mesh air filter model performs with a high degree of dust arrestance when installed in industrial machinery, military and power generation equipment where permanent type, cleanable filters are required. ME-2X, ME-3, ME-5, ME-5X filters have been specially designed for equipment where space is limited. Order an air filter prototype for your application today.

Framed Filters +/-.06″ length & width, +/-.03″ thickness

Pad Filters +/-.12″ length & width, +/-.06″ thickness

Metal Mesh media consists of layers of aluminum slit and expanded into 0.25″ thickness.  Single or multiple media layers can be used depending on the level of air flow and filtration required for the application.

Metal Mesh media consists of layers of aluminum slit and expanded into various thickness grades.  Metal Mesh configurations are matched with customer application requirements to provide the optimal combination of dust capturing and dust holding capacity while minimizing resistance to airflow.  Metal Mesh filters are ideal for use in harsh environments where rugged, washable and reusable filters are most appropriate.  Metal Mesh filters are popular in industrial enclosure, outdoor cabinets and applications requiring EMI shielding in a single, low-cost assembly.

Model Media Thickness Frame Thickness 3D CAD Model
ME-2X .25 .23 Create & Download
ME-3 .25 .30 Create & Download
ME-5 .25 .43 Create & Download
ME-5X .50 .50 Create & Download
ME-1025-B .25 .88 Create & Download
ME-1050-B .50 .88 Create & Download

UL 900

FMVSS 302

RoHS

REACH

Roll formed into a strong sturdy one-piece channel using 3000 series aluminum. Frame is tightly fitted to filter media and fastened with an aluminum rivet. The UL listing, model number and air flow direction are roll imprinted into the frame. Part number is metal stamped into frame for quick, accurate identification.

In addition to the standard roll formed frame design, more custom options are also available. The Windowpane style frame allows for highly customizable, non-rectangular frame profiles.

Model Metal Mesh Media Thickness Frame Thickness
ME-2X .25 .23
ME-3 .25 .30
ME-5 .25 .43
ME-5X .25 .50
ME-1025-B .25 .88
ME-1050-B .50 .88

Expanded on our specially designed Uni-Grid equipment, using .040″ thick, 3000 series aluminum. Uni-Grid expanded aluminum is approximately 85% open to lower resistance. Uni-Grid support is used on both sides of the metal mesh media for support.

Filtration Performance Data:

Metal Mesh

Metal Mesh Models: ME-2X, ME-3, ME-5, ME-1025-B, Windowpane
Initial Resistance*
(Pascals)		 Average Synthetic
Dust Weight Arrestance(%)
0.07 (17,41) 46
*in inches water gauge

Tests performed according to ASHRAE Standard 52.1 -1992 at 300 feet per minute (1,53 m/s) face velocity.
Metal Mesh Models: ME-5X, ME-1050B, Windowpane
Initial Resistance*
(Pascals)		 Average Synthetic
Dust Weight Arrestance(%)
0.14 (34,82) 62
*in inches water gauge

Tests performed according to ASHRAE Standard 52.1 -1992 at 300 feet per minute (1,53 m/s) face velocity.

Key Characteristics

  • Washable and Reusable — Aluminum mesh media can be cleaned and reinstalled, reducing long-term filter replacement costs.
  • EMI Shielding Capable — Metal mesh construction provides electromagnetic interference shielding when required by the application.
  • Multiple Frame Options — Available in roll-formed channel frames, windowpane-style custom profiles, and ultra-thin stamped sheet metal.
  • UL 900 Listed — Standard models carry UL 900 classification.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you clean metal mesh air filters?

Metal mesh air filters can be washed with water or a mild detergent and reused. Specific cleaning recommendations depend on the filter model and the type of contaminants being captured. [Link to existing FAQ page about cleaning]

What is the difference between metal mesh and standard air filters?

Metal mesh filters use expanded aluminum media rather than disposable synthetic or fiberglass media. This makes them washable, reusable, and better suited for harsh or outdoor environments where filter access and replacement may be difficult.

Are metal mesh air filters available in custom sizes?

Yes. UAF manufactures metal mesh filters to your application’s specifications, including custom dimensions, frame profiles, and media thickness.