DSQ Plates, also known as Dead Soft Quality steel plates, are not inherently acid-resistant in the way stainless steels are, but they are widely used in acid-facing applications like galvanizing tanks, pickling plants, and chemical storage tanks—when protected with proper lining systems. DSQ plates, as per IS 8917:1978, offer excellent formability, weldability, and cold bending, making them highly suited for tank fabrication that requires acid-proof lining post-fabrication.
What Makes DSQ Steel Suitable for Acidic Environments?
It’s the dead-soft nature—low hardness, high ductility, and ease of forming—that makes DSQ ideal for acid-resistant applications once lined with rubber, FRP, or bitumen. These plates do not crack during press-forming, ensuring seamless construction of large-area vessels before acid-proof lining is applied.
Industries Using DSQ in Acid Storage & Handling
- Steel pickling lines (HCl tanks)
- Zinc galvanizing plants (flux tanks)
- Fertilizer & phosphate chemical units
- Effluent treatment & acid recovery tanks
- Sulphuric and phosphoric acid dosing tanks
Their cold-formable nature allows press-bending and corner welding without fracture or deformation—essential for customized acid-resistant containers.
Mechanical Properties for Formability in Acid-Use Fabrication
| Property | Typical Value (DSQ Steel) |
|---|---|
| Yield Strength | 240 – 260 MPa |
| UTS (Tensile Strength) | 370 – 410 MPa |
| Elongation | > 28% |
| Hardness (BHN) | ≤ 130 |
| Weldability | Excellent |
Does DSQ Offer Any Natural Corrosion Resistance?
No. DSQ steel is not corrosion-resistant on its own. It is a soft carbon steel grade and must be lined or coated before exposure to acids. Its smooth surface profile and low hardness make it ideal for applying acid-proof linings like:
- Natural rubber
- FRP / GRP
- HDPE sheet
- Bitumen mastic
- Lead lining
Lining + DSQ: The Standard for Acid Tanks
In galvanizing and pickling tanks, DSQ forms the shell, while the internal surface is protected using linings based on the acid type:
- HCl / Sulphuric Acid (H₂SO₄): Rubber lining
- Phosphoric Acid (H₃PO₄): FRP lining
- Mixed Acids / Strong oxidizers: Lead lining
Advantages of Using DSQ in Lined Acidic Equipment
- Crack-free forming during tank rolling/bending
- Excellent weldability without stress risers
- Supports thick and seamless lining application
- Lower cost compared to stainless steel or alloys
Welding & Fabrication Benefits
DSQ steel allows:
- Smooth TIG/MIG welding
- Easy press forming & hydraulic shaping
- Trouble-free edge prepping for lining
- Uniform thickness control across plates
Why HIND DSQ Is Trusted in Acid-Resistant Fabrication
Hindustan Steel Corporation supplies HIND DSQ Plates to manufacturers of:
- Galvanizing tanks
- Pickling tanks
- Acid neutralization systems
- Acid dosing tanks
- FRP-lined storage vessels
With cut-to-size options, test certificates, and custom bending support, we serve tank fabricators across India, Saudi Arabia, Vietnam, UAE, and Africa.
DSQ vs Stainless Steel in Acidic Usage
| Criteria | DSQ (with Lining) | Stainless Steel (SS316L) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Low | High |
| Formability | Excellent | Moderate |
| Weldability | High | Moderate |
| Acid Resistance | Good (with lining) | Excellent (bare) |
| Use in Galvanizing | Common | Rare |
Global Use of DSQ in Acid Storage Projects
We supply DSQ plates for FRP-lined acid storage tanks in:
- Saudi Arabia, Oman, and UAE
- South Africa, Kenya, and Ghana
- Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia
Also serving Indian fabricators in Ankleshwar, Vapi, Baroda, Hyderabad, and Howrah.
Buyer Tip: Always Ask for IS 8917 Compliance
Don’t just ask for “DSQ Plate” verbally. Always demand:
- IS 8917:1978 test certificate
- Controlled hardness range
- Acid lining compatibility confirmation
- Plate surface condition for lining adhesion
Certifications & Testing Support
- IS 8917:1978 Compliance
- ISO 9001 Quality Systems
- Ultrasonic, Visual & Thickness Tests
- Custom Chemical Analysis (if needed)
Enquire Now for DSQ Plate Supply
Whether you’re building acid tanks, scrubbers, or ducting systems, we offer:
- Cut-to-size DSQ plates
- Bending-ready blanks
- Export-ready bundles
- Fast Mumbai dispatch
FAQs – Is Dead Soft Steel Acid Resistant?
Can DSQ plate be used in sulphuric acid tanks?
Yes, with rubber or FRP lining, DSQ is ideal for sulphuric acid applications.
What is the full form of DSQ?
Dead Soft Quality.
What is the standard for DSQ plate?
IS 8917:1978.
Is DSQ cheaper than stainless steel?
Yes, significantly cheaper, especially in large tank fabrication.
Looking for customized DSQ plates for pickling tank fabrication? Contact us today for mill-direct pricing, shortest lead time, and full documentation. We supply cut-to-size, acid-resistant DSQ plates across industries.