A common sight in warehouses and industrial facilities, grating is the strong metal mesh – perhaps better described as open grid – that forms a (usually elevated) surface that workers can work on and goods can be processed and stored on.
Grating is made up of sturdy bearing bars arranged in parallel, joined at right angles by cross bars. This forms a rigid, durable grid that can handle heavy loads, but that also lets light, air and liquids pass through. These properties make it ideal for use in industrial flooring, platforms, walkways and staircases.
But not all grating is made the same.
The two most common industrial grating types are press-locked and welded bar. Each has its advantages: precision and design flexibility for press-locked (particularly with a quality brand like Meiser), strength and cost-effectiveness for welded bar.
Which is best for your situation? Read on to find out.
Overview of each grating type
Let’s begin by gaining a basic understanding of your options. What are the differences between press-locked and welded bar grating?
Press-locked grating
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How it’s made: The bearing bars and the cross bars are slotted at precise intervals. The cross bars are pressed into the bearing bars under very high pressure, which forces the slots to interlock to form a tight mechanical joint.
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Typical applications: Combining strength with a clean and precise look, press-locked grating is used in architectural façades, public spaces, stair treads, safety barriers and areas where a more refined finish is desired.
Welded bar grating
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How it’s made: As the name suggests, cross bars and bearing bars are welded together, creating a permanent joint that forms a strong, durable overall structure. The focus is on function, not form.
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Typical applications: Welded bar is a commonly used grating for industrial mezzanines, flooring, platforms, catwalks, walkways and heavy-duty environments that prioritise strength, durability and cost-effectiveness, and have less of a focus on precision and aesthetics.
In terms of functionality, press-locked and welded bar grating are very similar. But their subtle differences do lead to unique sets of strengths and weaknesses.
Pros & cons: welded bar grating
Welded bar grating is often chosen without a second thought – the first thought being ‘grating is grating’. But it’s important to understand the pros and cons of this option, to make an educated decision as to whether this type of grating is right for your situation.
Pros:
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Strength: Able to handle large loads.
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Durability: Can handle knocks and heavy use.
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Cost-effectiveness: The cheapest grating option.
Cons:
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Build quality: Less precise tolerances, potential weaknesses in welds.
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Aesthetics: Visible weld marks create a harsher, more industrial look.
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Longevity: Welds form potential corrosion points that can weaken the structure over time.
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Customisation: Standard options limit your ability to dictate mesh spacing and design.
Pros & cons: press-locked grating
Press-locked grating represents the next step up from welded bar grating – particularly when you choose a quality brand like Meiser.
Pros:
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Build quality: Precise tolerances guarantee consistent spacing and excellent weight distribution.
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Aesthetics: Zero welds create a clean, uniform appearance, making press-locked grating the go-to choice for highly visible and architectural applications.
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Longevity: The lack of welds means a reduced risk of corrosion.
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Design customisation: Get your grating made to order, choosing from mesh size, bar thickness, material and finish options.
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Built for extreme environments: Choose grating that can handle heat or moisture. Choose slip resistant options for wet areas.
Cons:
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Upfront cost: While press-locked grating can incur a slightly higher upfront cost, enhanced longevity and functionality can ultimately see this investment paid back.
Why Meiser’s press-locked grating is a standout choice
If you’re considering an investment in press-locked grating, it’s a sign that you appreciate quality. The name Meiser is synonymous with exactly that.
The world’s leading press-locked grating manufacturer, Meiser brings a distinctly German approach to the space, combining high-precision production methods with extensive customisation options.
Why choose Meiser?
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Precision engineering: Meiser uses advanced pressing technology that guarantees tight tolerances and perfectly aligned joints. Meiser grating consistently outperforms press-locked products from other brands.
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Design flexibility: The Meiser catalogue offers a wide range of custom bar spacings, geometries and materials, ensuring that your grating seamlessly integrates into your industrial space or architectural project.
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Surface finishes: Options like hot-dip galvanisation, powder coating and stainless finishes mean Meiser grating can handle a wide range of conditions, can last longer, and can be built to match project aesthetics.
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German quality: Germany has its engineering reputation for a reason. Meiser is known for the quality and consistency of its gratings, which maintain structural integrity over decades.
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Architectural edge: Meiser’s press-locked range is not only functional, but aesthetically pleasing. It’s the preferred choice for façades, public spaces, and high-spec architectural projects across the globe.
Add in an enviable track record that stretches back over 60 years, and Meiser press-locked grating forms the obvious choice for any business that appreciates the importance of quality.
Unistor: your home of Meiser grating
Both press-locked and welded bar grating have their place.
As the more cost-effective choice, at least in the short-term, welded bar grating is a solid option for businesses that have limited funds to invest in infrastructure, and that aren’t overly concerned with considerations like aesthetics and customisation.
But if your business is prepared to make a long-term investment in your facilities, Meiser press-locked grating is the obvious choice.
While the upfront investment is higher, Meiser press-locked grating can be customised to your precise needs and situation. It can be built to handle whatever you throw at it, and whatever conditions it will face within your facility. As weld-free, anti-corrosion grating, it can last longer, and ultimately turn out cheaper in the long run, as it doesn’t have to be repaired or replaced.
And if aesthetics are a consideration, there’s simply no comparison. Meiser press-locked grating is the preferred choice of architects the world over.
Press-locked grating sales have already overtaken welded bar in a number of European countries, as more and more forward-thinking businesses recognise it as an investment worth making. An increasing number of Australian companies are beginning to realise that too.
Want to know more about Meiser press-locked grating? We’re ready to help.
Get in touch with our expert team today to lock in your design consultation.
