As one of the most durable metals, steel gets made into bars, slabs, rolls, sheets, and plates for various uses. Steel plates, in particular, offer a variety of applications thanks to their versatility, which is why they're manufactured in large and small factories alike. Here, learn more about steel plates and their uses to determine what's best for your project.

What Are Steel Plates?

Also known as flat steel, steel plates are made by layering sheets of the metal that get compressed and placed in a forge until a single plate remains. Once it hardens, the material undergoes cutting and welding, depending on its intended use.

Plate usage dictates whether other metals are added during the manufacturing process to create alloys, such as those that make the final product thicker, lighter, or rust-resistant. Plates also feature either low or high carbon steel content depending on their application, with low carbon steel accepting drills and screws easily and high carbon steel resisting corrosion.

How Are They Used?

Bridges, as well as municipal and commercial buildings, such as skyscrapers and sports stadiums, typically include steel plates for durability and fortification purposes. They may be used in brace or bracket form—an application that also lends itself to ship and military vehicle construction, including helicopters, jeeps, ground vehicles, and tanks.

Additional steel plate uses include being used on roads,  pressure vessel plates for assorted storage containers, including gas tanks and boilers. They're also used in the manufacturing of industrial and construction vehicles, including bulldozers, earthmovers, and other heavy machinery. Finally, steel plates reinforce existing structures, such as those found underwater that need extra support. 

If you need steel plates for your next project, contact Magna Steel Sales, Inc. This custom fabrication company has been serving Westport, CT, and the surrounding areas since 1984. Offering steel beams and rebar, among other products, this full-service warehouse also features a team of experts that provides welding, drilling, flame cutting, and plate bending assistance. Call (203) 888-0300 today to place an order, or review their available products online.