What is the difference between 40 mesh and 100 mesh?

The terms 40 mesh and 100 mesh refer to the number of openings per inch in a screen or filter material, typically used in the context of mesh sizes for sieving or filtering. The difference between the two lies primarily in the size of the openings and filtering capabilities. Here's a detailed comparison:

1. Mesh Count

• 40 Mesh:
  • 40 mesh means that there are 40 openings per inch in the mesh. This results in larger openings compared to higher mesh counts.
• 100 Mesh:
  • 100 mesh means that there are 100 openings per inch, which results in smaller openings compared to 40 mesh. The higher the mesh count, the finer the holes.

2. Opening Size

• 40 Mesh:
  • The opening size for 40 mesh is larger, typically around 0.016 inches (0.406 mm) in diameter. This allows larger particles to pass through and is commonly used for coarser filtration or sieving.
• 100 Mesh:
  • The opening size for 100 mesh is smaller, typically around 0.005 inches (0.127 mm) in diameter. This makes it suitable for filtering finer particles or screening finer materials.

3. Particle Size Filtered

• 40 Mesh:
  • A 40 mesh screen will filter out particles larger than 0.016 inches, so it is typically used for applications where you need to retain coarser particles and allow finer particles to pass through.
• 100 Mesh:
  • A 100 mesh screen will filter out particles larger than 0.005 inches, making it suitable for applications requiring finer filtration. It can trap smaller particles and is commonly used in processes like fine filtering, sifting, or sieving.

4. Typical Applications

• 40 Mesh:
  • Coarse filtration or sieving applications, such as in sand, gravel, or other larger granular materials. It's often used in industries like construction, mining, or food processing where larger particles need to be removed.
• 100 Mesh:
  • Finer filtration for processes that require cleaner, smaller particles to be separated, such as in paint, ink, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. It is often used for dust collection, water filtration, or screening fine powders.

5. Flow Rate

• 40 Mesh:
  • Due to the larger openings, flow rates (the speed at which material passes through) are generally faster in a 40 mesh screen, as there is less resistance to flow.
• 100 Mesh:
  • With smaller openings, flow rates are slower compared to 40 mesh, as the mesh offers more resistance to the passage of material. However, it provides finer filtration.

6. Strength and Durability

• 40 Mesh:
  • The wire used in 40 mesh screens tends to be thicker, which makes them more durable and able to withstand higher pressures or rougher materials.
• 100 Mesh:
  • The wire in 100 mesh screens is generally thinner, as the finer holes are created with finer wire. While still durable, it may not handle as much abrasion or heavy material as 40 mesh screens.

Summary of Differences:

The primary difference between 40 mesh and 100 mesh lies in the size of the openings, which affects the filtration level. 40 mesh is best for coarse filtration where larger particles need to be separated, while 100 mesh is ideal for fine filtration, trapping smaller particles for more refined applications. The choice between the two depends on the specific needs of the process, such as the material being filtered and the required level of particle separation.