Introduction
Stainless steel plates are essential materials in a wide range of industrial and commercial applications. Renowned for their excellent corrosion resistance, high strength, and long service life, they are widely used in construction, chemical processing, food and beverage production, energy, marine, and transportation sectors.
This article provides a practical overview of the main types of stainless steel plates, focusing on their grades, finishes, and common applications to help procurement professionals make informed sourcing decisions.
What Are Stainless Steel Plates?
Stainless steel plates are flat-rolled steel products with excellent corrosion resistance, commonly used in high-strength and high-temperature applications. They are typically thicker than sheets and are often chosen for structural, pressure-rated, or load-bearing purposes.
To avoid confusion, here’s a quick comparison between plates, sheets, and coils—three commonly used stainless steel flat products:
| Feature | Plate | Sheet | Coil |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical Thickness | > 6.0 mm | 0.5 – 6.0 mm | Same as sheet (in roll form) |
| Form | Flat, rectangular | Flat, rectangular | Continuous roll |
| Usage | Structural, heavy-duty | Fabrication, lighter parts | Mass production, stamping |
| Delivery Form | Cut to size | Sheet or coil | Coil |
As shown above, plates are defined by their greater thickness and are most often supplied as cut-to-size flat panels. Sheets, while also flat, are thinner and can be delivered in either sheet or coil form, depending on the production process. Coils are essentially sheets in a continuous roll, ideal for high-volume fabrication lines.
Common Dimensions
Stainless steel plates are available in a range of standard sizes. The most frequently supplied dimensions include:
| Standard Width (mm) | Standard Length (mm) |
|---|---|
| 1000 | 2000 |
| 1250 | 2500 |
| 1500 | 3000 |
Custom sizes, edge finishes (mill edge or slit edge), and tolerances are often available based on project needs and mill capability.
In short, if your application requires enhanced mechanical strength, resistance to corrosion or heat, and stability under load—stainless steel plate is the right material to consider.
Stainless Steel Plate Grades (Types by Composition)
Stainless steel plates are categorised by their metallurgical structure, which directly affects their mechanical properties, corrosion resistance, and typical applications. Below is an overview of the four main types:
Austenitic Stainless Steel (e.g. 304, 316)
Austenitic grades are the most widely used type of stainless steel. They offer excellent corrosion resistance, good formability, and are non-magnetic in the annealed condition.
- Key features: High corrosion resistance, excellent weldability, easy to fabricate
- Typical applications: Food processing equipment, medical devices, chemical tanks, marine hardware (especially 316 due to its molybdenum content)
Ferritic Stainless Steel (e.g. 430)
Ferritic stainless steels are less corrosion-resistant than austenitic grades but are more affordable. They are magnetic and have good resistance to stress corrosion cracking in mild environments.
- Key features: Cost-effective, magnetic, moderate corrosion resistance
- Common uses: Kitchen appliances, automotive trims, architectural panels
Martensitic Stainless Steel (e.g. 410, 420)
These grades are known for their high hardness and strength after heat treatment. They have lower corrosion resistance compared to austenitic or duplex steels but are suitable where wear resistance is critical.
- Key features: High strength, heat-treatable, moderate corrosion resistance
- Typical applications: Cutlery, turbine blades, pump shafts, valves
Duplex & Super Duplex Stainless Steel (e.g. 2205)
Duplex stainless steels combine both austenitic and ferritic structures, providing a balanced profile of strength and corrosion resistance. Super duplex grades offer even higher resistance to chloride stress corrosion and pitting.
- Key features: Dual-phase structure, high strength, superior corrosion resistance
- Used in: Offshore platforms, pressure vessels, desalination equipment, chemical processing plants
Surface Finishes of Stainless Steel Plates
Surface finish is more than just appearance—it can affect corrosion resistance, ease of cleaning, reflectivity, and even how the material performs in fabrication. Choosing the right finish depends on whether your application prioritises functionality, aesthetics, or both.
No.1 Finish – Hot Rolled, Annealed, and Pickled
A rough, dull surface typically used for industrial and structural applications where appearance is not critical.
Look: Matte, scaly, non-reflective
Use: Pressure vessels, tanks, heavy-duty fabrications
2B Finish – Cold Rolled, Annealed, and Pickled
A smooth, uniform, dull grey finish, created by cold rolling followed by annealing and descaling. Most commonly used general-purpose finish.
Look: Flat, slightly reflective matte
Use: Kitchen equipment, chemical containers, architectural interiors
BA (Bright Annealed) – Mirror-like Cold Rolled Finish
Produced in a controlled atmosphere to retain a bright, reflective surface without additional polishing. More mirror-like than 2B but not fully mirrored.
Look: Glossy, clean, highly reflective
Use: Home appliances, kitchen splashbacks, elevator doors
No.4 Finish – Brushed / Satin Finish
This finish has a directional grain and is achieved by mechanical polishing. It gives a clean, modern look and hides fingerprints better than mirror finishes.
Look: Brushed texture, semi-gloss
Use: Commercial kitchens, lifts, architectural cladding
Hairline (HL) & Mirror Finish
HL (Hairline): Similar to No.4 but with a finer, more continuous grain—used for decorative applications where a more sophisticated linear texture is preferred.
Mirror Finish: Fully polished to a mirror-like shine, often used where maximum reflectivity and aesthetics are essential.
Use: Escalator panels, signage, hotel interiors, high-end decoration
| Finish Type | Appearance & Features | Typical Applications |
|---|---|---|
| No.1 Finish Hot rolled, annealed | Dull, rough surface. Not reflective. Industrial look. | Pressure vessels, tanks, structural parts |
| 2B Finish Cold rolled, matte | Smooth, grey, non-directional. Most common finish. | Kitchenware, tanks, machinery, chemical equipment |
| BA Finish Bright annealed | Glossy and reflective. Not fully mirror but shiny. | Elevator doors, panels, home appliances |
| No.4 Finish Brushed / satin | Directional grain. Clean and modern appearance. | Architectural panels, kitchen counters, lifts |
| Hairline / Mirror | Hairline: fine grain; Mirror: full polish, high reflectivity. | Luxury interiors, signage, decorative facades |
Applications of Stainless Steel Plates
Stainless steel plates are used across a wide range of industries thanks to their excellent durability, hygiene, corrosion resistance, and aesthetic versatility. Here’s a breakdown of typical application areas, along with the recommended grade and surface finish for each.
| Application Area | Common Grades | Recommended Finishes | Typical Uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Construction & Structural | 304, 316, 2205 | No.1, 2B | Beams, supports, bridge components, wall cladding |
| Food & Pharmaceutical Equipment | 316L, 304 | 2B, BA | Processing tanks, cleanrooms, commercial kitchens |
| Chemical / Petrochemical | 316L, 2205, Super Duplex | No.1, 2B | Pressure vessels, piping, reactors, offshore tanks |
| Automotive & Transport | 409, 430, 304 | No.4, BA | Exhaust systems, trim, underbody panels, rail cars |
| Art & Interior Decoration | 304, 316 | No.4, HL, Mirror | Sculptures, lift doors, signage, designer furniture |
Choosing the Right Stainless Steel Plate
Corrosion Resistance
If your material will be exposed to moisture, saltwater, or chemicals, choose 316 or duplex grades.
Mechanical Strength
For structural or high-load applications, martensitic or duplex steels are ideal.
Surface Finish Requirements
Need easy cleaning or a hygienic surface? Go for 2B or BA finishes. Want a sleek or decorative look? Consider No.4, hairline, or mirror.
Formability & Weldability
Austenitic grades like 304 and 316 are easy to form and weld—great for complex shapes.
Budget Constraints
Ferritic stainless steels (e.g. 430) offer a cost-effective option for non-critical or decorative applications.
Standards & Certification
Always check if the material complies with key standards such as ASTM A240 (for pressure-rated and general-purpose plates) or EN 10088 (for European compliance).
Reputable suppliers should also provide a Mill Test Certificate (MTC), verifying the plate’s chemical composition and mechanical properties.
For more technical guidance, refer to SSINA or ASSDA—two trusted industry associations.
Need Help Selecting the Right Plate?
Every project is different. For expert advice based on your specific use case, it’s best to consult with a reliable stainless steel supplier.
A tailored recommendation could help you reduce cost, avoid over engineering, and ensure long-term performance.
Conclusion
Stainless steel plates come in a wide range of grades and finishes—each designed for specific functions, environments, and aesthetics. Choosing the right combination is key to ensuring long-term performance and value.
Select smart. Specify right.
Need help with your selection? Contact us today—we’re here to assist.
FAQ
Choosing the Right Grade: What to Consider
Q: Corrosive environment?
A: Go with austenitic (304/316) or duplex (2205).
Q: Need magnetic properties at a lower cost?
A: Ferritic grades like 430 may be ideal.
Q: Looking for high strength and wear resistance?
A: Martensitic options such as 410 or 420 are a better fit.
Q: Tough offshore or chemical processing environment?
A: Super duplex is often worth the investment.
What to Check Before Buying?
Material Certification: Ensure compliance with ASTM, EN, or JIS standards.
Surface Quality: Scratches or uneven finishing can affect corrosion resistance.
Dimensional Tolerances: Thickness, width, and flatness must meet your fabrication specs.
Origin & Mill Traceability: Essential for regulated industries (e.g. pharma, oil & gas).