U.K.-based KnitMesh Technologies (KnitMesh) reports that it has created a wire knitting machine that is able to manufacture wire mesh six feet across, a width that the company reports is an industry record.

A press release said that the model was specifically designed to produce mesh as wide as four meters to exacting tolerances to produce “green” hydrogen from water. The process “splits” water into separate hydrogen and oxygen molecules using an electrolysis process, and having access to larger size wire mesh provides economies of scale. The KnitMesh model can process wire from 0.10 mm to 0.50 mm in special metals and alloys, including stainless steels, nickel and coated wires. The company notes that it designed and produced the new system, as well as other bespoke equipment.

Asked by WJI whether the record width related just to the new demand, and if it could have been made at an earlier time, and possibly even wider, the company responded, “Theoretically, it could have been done before, but practical experience gained on recent large knitting machines has enabled this step.” As for the width, it observed, “Any width is possible, but any larger and the machines would require significant development of new components, such as bearings. The size of the new machine (we made) meets customer requirements for the foreseeable future.”

 KnitMesh Managing Director Peter Evans said that he is enthusiastic about the company’s role in shaping a carbon-free future through hydrogen fuel technologies. “We see hydrogen fuel as a key component of a sustainable future, and KnitMesh Technologies is proud to be a major supplier to this industry. We are actively expanding our business through recruitment and new equipment, and we foresee a bright future for our hydrogen division.”

In October, the company exhibited at Hydrogen Technology Expo Europe, held in Hamburg Messe in Hamburg, Germany. There they showcased their range of knitted wire mesh products, such as gas diffusion layers, porous transport layers, and mist eliminators. “The products garnered significant interest from attendees, reinforcing KnitMesh Technologies’ position as a leader in manufacturing advanced knitted wire mesh solutions.”

Founded in 1957, KnitMesh also has a plant in India, and activity there is expected to increase. “We are working with several Indian customers who will require meshes for green hydrogen electrolysers, and when they reach the series production stage we will install equipment at our Indian plant so we can ensure local supply.”

KnitMesh notes that wire mesh for creating “green” hyrdogen is a world-wide product. “Our main markets are currently Europe and North America, and we already supply similar electrolyzer meshes to customers in North America. As demand grows, we are likely to open a plant in North America.”