National Mfg N301-598 Expanded Sheet Metal 12x16 13GA

Product Description

The NATIONAL MFG/SPECTRUM BRANDS HHI N301-598 is a hot rolled plain steel expanded sheet metal panel measuring 12 inches by 16 inches at 13 gauge thickness. The expanded pattern features a 3/4 inch grid opening, providing a sturdy open-mesh structure suitable for ventilation, guarding, screening, and structural reinforcement applications. Because this material is plain steel with no protective coating applied at the factory, it must be primed, painted, powder coated, or otherwise treated before installation in any environment where moisture exposure is a concern. Fabricators, contractors, and maintenance technicians working in HVAC, industrial, or general construction settings commonly use this material for custom enclosures, grille work, and protective barriers.

This expanded sheet metal panel is suited for trade and industrial applications requiring a rigid, open-mesh steel blank that can be cut, bent, or fastened to fit a specific installation. Typical uses include equipment guards, ventilation panels, drainage grates, filter frames, and architectural infill panels. The 13 gauge hot rolled plain steel construction delivers solid rigidity in a manageable sheet size. Each package contains 3 panels, making it practical for jobs requiring multiple pieces or allowing for cut-to-fit customization on-site.

Key Features

• 12 inches by 16 inches sheet size — ready to cut or install as-is
• 13 gauge hot rolled plain steel construction for rigid, durable performance
• 3/4 inch expanded grid pattern for open-mesh ventilation or guarding
• Plain steel finish — must be protected to prevent corrosion before or after installation
• Sold in a package of 3 panels per unit

Compatibility

Designed as a general-purpose expanded sheet metal blank suitable for custom fabrication, equipment guarding, ventilation, and screening applications across HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and general construction trades.

Installation Notes

Installation of expanded sheet metal panels is typically performed by fabricators, maintenance technicians, or general contractors using standard metal-cutting and fastening tools. Always wear cut-resistant gloves and eye protection when handling or cutting expanded metal — edges and cut ends are sharp. Apply an appropriate corrosion-resistant primer, paint, or coating before installation in any wet, outdoor, or high-humidity environment, as the plain steel surface has no factory corrosion protection. Follow all applicable local building and safety codes when using expanded metal in guarding or structural applications.