What is a chequered plate?

Steel chequered plates are known for their distinct patterns and practical benefits. They have superior grip caused by the raised surface-patterns that reduces the risk of slipping.

From ambulance floors to walkways and bridges, chequered plates have a plethora of applications in the modern world. Distinguished by their unique patterns, the most commonly available types are Mild Steel or MS chequered plates and Stainless Steel or SS chequered plate.

Based on the steel material, thickness, and pattern complexity, price can vary between manufacturers. It’s however recommended to invest in quality plates since it offers durability and longevity. For business owners in the steel sector, this blog is a brief guide to help you make informed decisions – its benefits, applications, types, price and more. Let’s begin.

Chequered plate prices in India

Before we take a deeper look at the types and applications of chequered plate, let’s look at the daily rates in India.

As mentioned previously, prices are flexible, and vary as per the manufacturer, brand, size and thickness of plate, plate material, location of sale and other factors. As a buyer, keep these factors in mind when view chequered plate price per kg/tonne.

Price per kg / tonne

Chequered plates can be made of carbon steel, mild steel, or stainless steel. Each are available in various grades, thickness and patterns (designs) and are priced accordingly.

*Starting prices. Prices are for reference and subject to change. Does not include GST, freight, packaging and other charges. Differs by manufacturer, supplier, seller. Check rates with your seller before purchase

Size and thickness

The size and thickness of steel chequered plates play a pivotal role in their selection for specific applications and projects. The various dimensions of chequered plates make them suitable for specific functions, especially when it comes to safety when bearing heavy loads.

Tailoring to the needs of Indian business owners in the steel industry, steel chequered plate size and thickness vary.

Chequered plate thickness: 3mm to 12 mm

This is the commonly found chequered plate thickness in the Indian market providing a wide range for both lightweight and heavy-duty projects.

Chequered plate size: 1250mm – 1500mm (width), 2500mm – 3000mm (length)

These are the standard dimensions for chequered plate size which allows these plates flexibility to be cut and shaped into smaller sizes as per project requirements.

Chequered plate for your business

It’s a known fact that chequered plates come with slip-resistant properties that allow it to bear heavy weight. The dimensions therefore are critical in their choice for specific projects.

• MS chequered plate: The thickness and size of mild steel chequered plates impact their durability, functionality and performance. For example, if the plates are of modest thickness (i.e., 5mm – 6mm), they can be used in flooring applications. They are reasonably strong and durable and can withstand considerable foot traffic and weight. Hence, it’s recommended to check material weight for your project and invest accordingly.

Understanding the project requirements and making the right investments in plates can enable businesses to make informed procurement decisions, in terms of efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness.

Also read: Cladding sheets – Learn how carbon steel plates can facilitate wall cladding

Types of Chequered Plates

Steel is a versatile metal, and steel chequered plates are integral to several industrial and construction project needs. The three most popular types of chequered plates are:

• MS chequered plates
• Stainless Steel chequered plates, and
• Carbon steel chequered plates.

Let’s take a look at each of them to understand their utility based on their key properties and features.

#1 – Mild Steel chequered plates

What makes mild steel chequered plates unique is their strength, weldability and flexibility. They can be seen in a wide range of industrial applications such as non-slip floors, staircases and walkways.

These plates are affordable, durable, and comes in simple patterns such as diamond or teardrop shapes. In terms of shapes, they are usually available in rectangular MS chequered plate form and are ideal for enhancing grip leading to lesser accidents.

Based on the size and thickness of the plates, they can bear heavy loads and are often used in construction, manufacturing, and automobile projects. They are also affordable and the preferred choice for budget-conscious projects.

#2 – Stainless Steel chequered plate

Stainless Steel is an alloy steel metal, made of iron and chromium. It has high tensile strength and does not deform when stretched.

Stainless steel’s composition moreover makes it corrosion resistant. It’s also recyclable and low on maintenance.

For projects looking at hygiene and low maintenance, SS chequered plates are the perfect solution. Though on the higher price range, they are durable, sleek in appearance, and long-lasting. They are often used in food processing industries, commercial kitchens, and medical facilities.

#3 – Carbon steel chequered plate

Carbon steel chequered plates are durable and strong and are suitable for projects in more demanding environments. In mining and construction industries, where strength and durability matters, carbon steel chequered plates are the best option.

They usually come with various design patterns that add to their aesthetic appeal. They are also available in different thickness and sizes depending on the requirements of the project and industrial application.

Industry applications of steel chequered plates

Steel chequered plates have purpose in various industries. From using steel plates in construction to steel in automotive, chequered plates with their rugged designs are indispensable. Let’s have a look at how SS chequered plates and MS chequered plates are used showcasing its versatility.

• Construction sector: Chequered plates are commonly used in the construction sector. They offer a combination of sturdiness and durability to floorings, ensuring safety. Anti-slip floorings reduce accidents and can withstand heavy loads and harsh conditions. Usually, SS chequered steel is used when there’s higher exposure to environmental elements especially moisture and humidity. Stainless steel is corrosion resistant, but in extreme conditions it can rust.
  (Also read: How to remove and clean stainless steel rust)
• Automobile sector: In the automobile sector, MS chequered steel plates are used for vehicle flooring. It’s rugged, robust, and can withstand constant load and usage. These plates are also used in manufacturing commercial vehicles like buses, trucks, and trailers, where strength is critical. When price is not a constraint, stainless steel chequered plates can be used to add elegance and aesthetics to robustness and functionality.
• Manufacturing sector: Steel in a popular metal used in the manufacturing sector. They are used in heavy machinery areas, for supporting people and equipment. In units such as food processing facilities, where hygiene and cleanliness are essential, stainless stee chequered plates are preferred as its corrosion resistant and doesn’t react with chemicals.
• Logistics sector: In the shipping, transportation and logistics sector, strong chequered plates are used to ensure the safety of goods and people. MS chequered floors can be used for cargo floors for strength. The anti-grip property also prevents goods from slipping during materials handling and transit. In a marine environment, the stainless steel variant is more popular due to humidity.

The multifaceted applications of chequered plates open new opportunities for steel suppliers, manufacturers, and business owners, especially in projects where safety, durability, and longevity are critical.

Selecting the right chequered plate for you

This brings us to the question, how to choose the right material for your business? Whether to use mild steel or stainless steel chequered plates? How the size and thickness of chequered plates impact its price?

There are several challenges in deciding upon the right type of chequered plates. For instance, stainless steel chequered plates are more expensive, but they provide design elegance, is corrosion resistant, and low on maintenance. As a business owner, it’s recommended to consider long-term benefits of usage against initial costs. Moreover, regular maintenance of these plates can be scheduled to extend the lifespan of these chequered plates.

If you are looking to buy chequered plates, it’s recommended to partner with trusted sellers and manufacturers. Check for quality certificates to ensure you are procuring high-grade of steel. Also, before finalising a supplier, compare quotes from multiple suppliers that caters to your business’s specific needs.

At Tata nexarc we can simplify steel procurement for you. We have partnered with numerous sellers to enable you to buy steel at competitive prices from multiple brands. You can avail credit, get doorstep delivery, and more. For more details, get in touch now.

Author: Sohini Banerjee

Sohini is a seasoned content writer with 12 years’ experience in developing marketing and business content across multiple formats. At Tata nexarc, she leverages her skills in crafting curated content on the Indian MSME sector, steel procurement, and logistics. In her personal time, she enjoys reading fiction and being up-to-date on trends in digital marketing and the Indian business ecosystem.