Steel base plates, Durbar floor plates, and hot rolled plates may all appear the same at a quick glance. However, each of these steel plates have different characteristics, making them ideally suited to different applications. Find out more about steel base plates, Durbar floor plates and hot rolled plates in our guide.
A steel base plate is a flat plate that’s used as a foundation or support for structures such as poles or columns. Base plates are generally rectangular or round, with round base plates used for securing posts or poles. These steel plates can be used temporarily to support scaffolding or other structures or to add permanent structural stability.
Steel base plates are designed to evenly distribute the weight and load of a structure to ensure that it’s not off balance. This prevents the structure’s foundation from sinking or shifting, as the pressure is evenly dispersed. You’ll commonly find steel base plates in use in building construction, bridges, towers, and other large structures.
Also known as Tread or Chequer plates, Durbar floor plates are steel plates designed specifically for use on flooring. Every Durbar floor plate has a raised diamond pattern on its surface that creates slip resistance in wet conditions. This reduces the chances of slips and falls, and adds an extra element of safety to walkways, stairs, platforms, and any other areas where slipping is a potential hazard. In addition to flooring applications, Durbar floor plates are also used in the fabrication of truck and trailer beds and storage tanks, and in the manufacturing of heavy equipment and machinery.
Available in a range of thicknesses, sizes, and grades of steel, there are hot rolled steel plates that suit a wide number of design requirements and applications. Hot rolled plates are used in multiple industries, such as construction, transportation, and manufacturing, as they’re durable and versatile, and can safely and efficiently speed up building processes. Unlike cold rolled steel that tends to have a smooth and shiny surface, hot rolled steel plates have rough edges and surfaces and their strength is slightly reduced due to the heat process used in manufacturing.
Characteristics
Square or round steel plates used for structural support
Durability
Extremely durable
Strength
Extremely strong as designed to distribute load evenly
Resistance
Extremely resistant to fatigue and yield stress
Finish
Smoother finish and edges
Characteristics
Square plates used for flooring applications
Durability
Durable and designed for high traffic areas
Strength
Strong yet thinner due to design purpose
Resistance
High tensile strength and resistance to corrosion
Finish
Raised diamond pattern
Characteristics
Square rough edge plates used for multiple design and construction purposes
Durability
Hot rolled steel may suffer from increased corrosion
Strength
May suffer from weak spots due to the hot rolling process
Resistance
Resistant to yield stress and fatigue
Finish
Rough edges and feel
When looking at steel base plates, hot rolled plates and Durbar floor plates, they all seem rather similar. Each steel plate is designed to strengthen and secure, and to add an element of safety and stability.
Despite their similarities, these three plates are all different, and their differences relate to their intended purpose and application. Durbar floor plates are specifically for flooring applications and the manufacturing of heavy equipment and machinery. Steel base plates are for adding foundation or support for structures and construction, while hot rolled plates are used in a myriad of industries, from construction to transportation and manufacturing.
Knowing the difference between Durbar floor plates, steel base plates, and hot rolled plates allows you to select the option that best suits your requirements. If you’re unsure about what type of plate you need, IMS is happy to assist.
