Which Wire Mesh Specifications Influence Resistance and Heat Generation?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the specifications of wire mesh that influence electrical resistance and heat generation in a circuit powered by a 1.2v NiMH battery. Participants explore various mesh characteristics and their implications for heating applications, particularly in the context of creating a heating element similar to those used in vape devices.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks guidance on which wire mesh specifications to consider for maximizing heat dissipation in their circuit.
  • Another participant suggests that wire mesh typically operates at high current, while batteries provide low current, questioning the suitability of wire mesh for the intended application.
  • A participant mentions the possibility of using standard resistors or nichrome wire as alternatives to wire mesh.
  • One participant references a specific mesh product from McMaster and suggests that it may be appropriate for heating applications.
  • Another participant expresses interest in understanding how various mesh specifications, such as wire diameter, open area percentage, mesh opening size, and thickness, affect resistance and heat generation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the best approach or specifications for wire mesh. There are competing views on the suitability of wire mesh versus other heating elements, and the discussion remains unresolved regarding the specific effects of different mesh specifications on resistance and heat generation.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about the relationships between various mesh specifications and their impact on electrical resistance and heat generation. There are references to prior research and anecdotal evidence, but no definitive conclusions are drawn.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for individuals interested in electrical engineering, heating element design, or DIY electronics projects, particularly those exploring the use of wire mesh in heating applications.

algar32
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I am building a circuit that is hooked up to a 1.2v NiMH battery. I will be using a wire mesh similar to this: https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=sr_pg_...mesh&ie=UTF8&qid=1363133769&tag=pfamazon01-20

Unless there is a better mesh for this application.

I want as much power as possible to be dissipated as heat across this wire mesh? Can you help me find an approach to solving this?

Based off of reading the specifications here (and pasted below):
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005H3GPS6/?tag=pfamazon01-20

Brand Name
Small Parts

Part Number
SS-080-0070-01

Material Type
304 Stainless Steel

Exterior Finish
Unpolished (Mill)

System of Measurement
Inch

Overall Length
12 inches

Length Tolerance
1/8 inches

Thickness
0.007 inches

Thickness Tolerance
1/16 inches

Width
12 inches

Width Tolerance
1/8 inches

Wire Diameter
0.007 inches

Mesh Opening Size
0.006 inches

Open Area %
19

Specification Met
ASTM E2016-06

Item Shape
Sheet

Number of Items
1

Size Name
Mesh Size #80 X 80

There are quite a few variables in the mesh specifications and I was hoping someone could help me determine which ones I can use to determine what mesh I should purchase.

Thanks.
 
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Generally wire mesh operates at high current and batteries are low current.
Would it be possible to use standard resistors or nichrome wire?
If you would include details of what you are trying to do, someone might be able to help you.
 
Carl Pugh said:
Generally wire mesh operates at high current and batteries are low current.
Would it be possible to use standard resistors or nichrome wire?
If you would include details of what you are trying to do, someone might be able to help you.

I'm trying to make a heating mesh, similar to that of this mini vape device:
http://www.instructables.com/id/The-Mini-Vape-Pictures/

I just would like to know what mesh design specifications will result in the most heat. Thanks.
 
Thanks for the suggestion. In that article he actually says he uses: http://www.twpinc.com/wire-mesh/TWPCAT_10/p_325X325TL0014W48T

This seems to have quite similar specifications to the one you posted from mcmaster. I did notice mcmaster does allow you to purchase a small sample, which is a good thing if I end up purchasing from there.

My final question is this:
I know I can copy meshes from others projects, but is there any way for me to learn exactly which specifications of a wire mesh lead to a higher/lower resistance and create a higher/lower amount of heat? From prior research I have learned that a lower wire diameter means higher resistance (which makes sense), but how do the other specifications (i.e % open area, mesh opening size, thickness) affect the resistance of the wire mesh? Thanks.
 
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