What are perforated metal sheets?
In their simplest form, perforated metal sheets are manufactured from metal plate, coil or sheet that has been mechanically punched or pierced repeatedly using CNC technology and specialist equipment, creating holes of different shapes, sizes and density throughout the material. Larger holes or more complex shapes may also be created using a different manufacturing process known as laser cutting.
Uses of perforated metal sheets
Automotive
Our Automotive division manufactures high quality components for a range of automotive applications, to complement high quality interior and exterior trim designs. Our ability to perforate and expand metals exclusively positions us as one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of materials both for the home market and export. For those British cars assembled outside the UK, we continue to play an important role in what makes a British car British, manufacturing premium quality perforated and formed products including speaker grilles, ventilation and mesh parts.
Aerospace Engines
Perforated metal sheets can be applied to a significant proportion of structural designs in the Aero engine industry, mostly used in applications that cannot be seen, they play a critical role as part of the functional constituent parts of the engine. Perforated metal sheets are widely used as acoustic absorption components within aero engine manufacture, designed to exacting specifications for engine noise reduction both within the plane and externally. As AS91000 approved manufacturers, we provide a diverse range of high quality perforated and expanded metal sheet products and specialist lightweight materials tailored especially for our loyal customers in the aerospace industry.
Aerospace Engines
Perforated metal sheets can be applied to a significant proportion of structural designs in the Aero engine industry, mostly used in applications that cannot be seen, they play a critical role as part of the functional constituent parts of the engine. Perforated metal sheets are widely used as acoustic absorption components within aero engine manufacture, designed to exacting specifications for engine noise reduction both within the plane and externally. As AS91000 approved manufacturers, we provide a diverse range of high quality perforated and expanded metal sheet products and specialist lightweight materials tailored especially for our loyal customers in the aerospace industry.
Construction
The versatility of perforated metal sheets makes them ideal for use in the construction industry, offering a plethora of functional benefits that can be applied to: security, building ventilation, solar shading, acoustic control and thermal protection. Architecturally, the dynamic aesthetic appeal of bespoke perforated facades makes them a popular feature within our immediate built environment too, whether used extensively and boldly as external cladding for commercial and residential buildings, or appearing as a singular eye-catching feature such as signage or internal wall panels.
Acoustic
These can be used for acoustic benefit within commercial and residential environments, typically they are applied as an integral part of an acoustic screen system, designed into ceiling tiles and incorporated internal or external wall claddings, following the architect’s specification. Depending on how the perforations are used, they can be applied to reflect, absorb or scatter sound, as well as targeting specific frequencies acting as a resonant sound absorber.
Acoustic
These can be used for acoustic benefit within commercial and residential environments, typically they are applied as an integral part of an acoustic screen system, designed into ceiling tiles and incorporated internal or external wall claddings, following the architect’s specification. Depending on how the perforations are used, they can be applied to reflect, absorb or scatter sound, as well as targeting specific frequencies acting as a resonant sound absorber.
Ventilation
In addition to filtering sound, perforated metal sheets can be used for ventilation and filtration purposes because the perforations or openings will allow the passage of light, air, liquids and other gasses in a controlled manner. Ash & Lacy’s products are regularly used for functional stability within the electronics industry, chosen because of their combined acoustic and ventilation cooling capabilities in applications including electronic components, telecommunication satellites, mass server storage and maintenance.
Perforated metal sheets – Creating Images
Using advanced tooling and CAD technology, we have the capability inhouse to convert an image into a perforated design, whether the inspiration is your favourite photograph, or an artist’s drawing, it can be brought to life as a bespoke architectural feature. Using CAD programmes means that we’re able to convert most files including JPEGs, however considerations like richness of colour, complexity and image sharpness are factors that will influence the quality of the conversion to perforations. We can provide advice and guidance at early stages to ensure your image will be accurately represented in the most effective way possible.
Perforated Patterns & Designs
Ash & Lacy’s perforated metal sheet design, in-house tooling and image conversion capabilities allow for an extensive range of decorative products which go far beyond the usual round-hole perforations.
