Strainer Mesh-to-Micron Conversion Chart
Strainer and filter screens are specified two ways — by mesh number (wires per inch) or by micron (opening size). This chart converts between them so you can match a screen to the particle size you need to stop.
Conversion chart (US mesh)
Nominal openings. Actual opening varies with wire diameter, so treat these as standard references.
| Mesh | Microns (approx.) | Inches (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | 2,000 | 0.079 |
| 20 | 840 | 0.033 |
| 30 | 590 | 0.023 |
| 40 | 420 | 0.017 |
| 50 | 297 | 0.012 |
| 60 | 250 | 0.0098 |
| 80 | 177 | 0.0070 |
| 100 | 149 | 0.0059 |
| 150 | 105 | 0.0041 |
| 200 | 74 | 0.0029 |
| 325 | 44 | 0.0017 |
| 400 | 37 | 0.0015 |
How to read it
Higher mesh number = more wires per inch = smaller openings = finer filtration. A 20-mesh screen stops particles down to ~840 microns; a 100-mesh screen stops down to ~149 microns. Finer screens protect tighter equipment but clog faster and add pressure drop.
Picking a screen
Start with the smallest orifice or clearance you're protecting downstream (a spray nozzle, pump, or meter), then choose a mesh that stops particles below that size. For general pipe-debris protection, perforated or coarse mesh (20 mesh) is usually enough. See the Y-strainer selection & sizing guide for the full picture.
Shop strainers
Browse strainers or contact us for help matching a screen to your application.