A chain link fence is suitable if you want a physical barrier around your property that lets you see through the fencing material. These fences are made of interwoven steel wires that form a diamond pattern and offer a strong, durable perimeter. Chain link fences come in various options, including stainless steel, PVC coated, and galvanized. Here’s some of the science behind chain link fencing, including the materials, engineering, and quality control measures:
Table of Contents
Materials Used
Chain link fences are primarily made of core wire, which comes in different gauges and types. High-quality galvanized steel wires are used for their durability and corrosion resistance. The wire’s gauge or thickness must be equal throughout the fence, and fencing manufacturers offer different sizing options. Thicker wires are stronger and more durable, making them ideal for industrial applications. Thinner wires are usually used in residential settings. Chain link fencing also features coatings and finishes that improve its resilience to environmental factors like heat, moisture, and rust.
Galvanized core wires are coated with a layer of zinc to prevent rusting. PVC coatings offer an extra layer of protection and come in different colors to help you blend the fence with your landscape. A smooth, even coating is required to prevent gaps that can lead to moisture exposure. Chain link fences have diamond-shaped spaces that form a mesh pattern. Fences with larger mesh spaces are ideal for perimeter boundaries, while those with smaller openings offer more privacy and security for homeowners. Smaller meshes also provide increased wind resistance and are harder to climb, protecting your property from damage and unwanted visitors.
Engineering Process
Manufacturing chain link fences involves many steps, including core wire crafting, coating, and weaving. The core wire is made by melting and molding high-quality steel. After the steel cools, manufacturers dip it into molten zinc, coating it with a protective layer that prevents corrosion. This process is known as hot-dipped galvanizing. After galvanization, the steel is cleaned to remove residue and contaminants before being preheated and coated with vinyl. The PVC coating occurs inside an extrusion chamber, where molten PVC is forced through a die and around the wire to create an even coating before being cooled.
Galvanized and PVC-coated wires undergo a straightening process to create uniform thickness and length. Straightening can also identify fragile points, which the manufacturer addresses before the next step. The straightened wires are then knuckled and twisted to create a diamond-shaped pattern. Knuckling and weaving continue with multiple wires, creating a distinct mesh structure. The fence is then rolled and tensioned into large spools for easy storage and transportation. Tensioning also keeps the fence taut, reducing the likelihood of warping and sagging. Chain link fence suppliers provide metal or wooden posts to support the mesh after installation. The posts are anchored in the ground, resulting in a stable, taught protective barrier for your property.
Quality Control
Chain link fence manufacturing involves various quality control measures to engineer reliable fences with the desired properties. Quality assurance complements the engineering process to create fences with uniform gauges, coating, and heights. Manufacturers integrate different inspections and tests, including tensile strength tests and coating checks. The tests result in fences with minimal flaws that can withstand the intended application.
A chain link fence is a versatile and suitable option for creating enclosures used to protect equipment, industrial settings, and commercial properties. Some applications require taller fences with thicker gauges and smaller gaps to withstand strong winds, intruders, and stray animals. Homeowners who want to protect lawns or gardens can purchase shorter fences with smaller gauges. The galvanization and coating processes are also optimized to match each customer’s intended application.
Install Quality Chain Link Fencing
Chain link fences enable quick, affordable installations for playgrounds, schools, farms, and sports fields. These fences can last for many years and have low maintenance needs. Contact an experienced fencing contractor today to learn more about chain link fencing.