Confused About Which Carbon Steel Plate to Buy?
If you’re a fabricator, project engineer, or purchasing manager, choosing the right carbon steel plate grade is critical for:
Safety
Cost-effectiveness
Performance
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you select the correct carbon steel plate for your project, whether it’s for structural work, pressure vessels, or industrial fabrication.
5 Key Factors to Consider When Selecting Carbon Steel Plates
- Application Type – Structural, Pressure Vessel, Tanks, Pipelines?
- Required Mechanical Properties – Yield strength, tensile, impact resistance?
- Project Location & Climate – Temperature, seismic zone?
- Required Standards – ASTM, IS, EN, JIS?
- Cost vs Performance Trade-off
Common Applications and Corresponding Grades
| Application | Recommended Grade |
|---|---|
| Structural Fabrication | ASTM A36, IS 2062 |
| Pressure Vessels | ASTM A516 Gr 70, IS 2002 |
| Bridges | EN 10025 S355JR |
| Marine & Offshore | S355, EH36 |
| OEM Machine Frames | SS400, S275JR |
| Chemical Storage Tanks | A516 Gr 60/70 with NACE |
Always cross-check client specification before finalizing grade
Thickness Range and Size Availability
- Common thickness range: 6 mm to 150 mm
- Widths: Up to 3000 mm
- Lengths: Up to 12000 mm
- Cut-to-size and profile-cut available for all grades.
Impact of Heat Treatment on Selection
- Normalized: Needed for pressure vessels and heavy structures
- As-Rolled: Suitable for general structural use
- Quenched & Tempered: For high strength and toughness
- IC/NACE Tested: For sour service conditions
Fabrication & Welding Suitability
| Grade | Weldability | Fabrication Ease |
|---|---|---|
| A36 | Excellent | High |
| IS 2062 | Excellent | High |
| S355 | Good | Moderate |
| A516 | Excellent | Designed for welding |
| SS400 | Excellent | High |
We provide plates with customized beveling, cutting, and marking as per your fabrication requirement.
Cost vs Performance – Making the Right Trade-off
- Tight budget? Go for IS 2062 or A36
- Safety critical project? Invest in S355JR or A516 Gr 70
- High-spec oil & gas? Ask for NACE HIC-tested plates
Our team can help with cost-benefit analysis before order placement
Export Availability for All Carbon Steel Grades
Exporting to:
- UAE
- Saudi Arabia
- South Africa
- Vietnam
- USA
- Qatar
Both container loads and part loads available, with CIF, FOB, and Ex-Works pricing options.
Buyer Tip: How to Specify Your Plate Requirement Correctly
Always mention:
- Grade
- Standard (ASTM/IS/EN/JIS)
- Thickness
- Width x Length
- Testing requirements (Impact, HIC, NACE, UT)
- Surface finish (As-rolled, Shot-blasted, Primer-coated)
Certifications and Test Reports
Supplied with:
- MTC as per EN 10204 3.1
- UT reports (on request)
- Charpy impact test reports
- Third-party inspection documents
SEO, AEO, Voice Search Optimized FAQs – How to Choose Carbon Steel Plate
Which grade is best for structural fabrication?
A36 or IS 2062.
Which carbon steel plate is used for boilers?
A516 Gr 70.
What is the difference between A36 and A516?
Structural vs Pressure vessel grade.
Which grade is most economical?
IS 2062 Grade B
What are common thicknesses for carbon steel plates?
6 mm to 150 mm.
Is NACE HIC testing available?
Yes, for pressure grades
Which carbon steel grade is used for offshore structures?
S355 or S355J2.
Where can I get a carbon steel plate selection guide PDF?
WhatsApp, Email, or Call us for a quick download.
Let our experts help you choose the best-fit carbon steel plate for your project.
Ask for:
- Grade recommendation based on your project
- Thickness and availability list
- FOB/CIF pricing quote