Dengwei International Trade is mainly engaged in various high-end steel import and export businesses, and is a brand enterprise in the metal circulation industry.
Views: 0 Author: Rachel Wynn Publish Time: 2025-06-09 Origin: Site
A 1/4 metal plate, with its 0.25-inch thickness, strikes a perfect balance between strength, durability, and workability. This makes it one of the most widely used metal thicknesses in heavy industry, fabrication, and construction. Whether you're designing a structural component, repairing a trailer frame, or building a custom fixture, a 1/4-inch metal plate is often the go-to solution.In this blog post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about 1/4 inch metal plates — from available materials, weight charts, machining tips, and applications, to buying recommendations and frequently asked questions.
A 1/4 metal plate refers to a metal sheet that is exactly 0.25 inches (6.35 millimeters) thick. It is available in various metals such as carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminum, depending on the intended application. This thickness provides excellent load-bearing capability without becoming too bulky to handle or process.
Metal plates of this size are widely used in structural steelwork, platforms, tanks, bridges, machinery bases, and more. They're easily cut, bent, and welded using standard industrial tools and can be ordered in standard sheet sizes or custom-cut dimensions.
| Property | Details |
|---|---|
| Nominal Thickness | 0.25 inches (6.35 mm) |
| Standard Sheet Sizes | 48" × 96" (4 ft × 8 ft), 60" × 120" (5 ft × 10 ft), Custom Available |
| Common Metals | Carbon Steel (A36), Stainless Steel (304/316), Aluminum (5052/6061) |
| Finish Options | Mill Finish, Polished, Hot Rolled, Cold Rolled, Pickled & Oiled |
| Weight (Steel 4×8 ft) | Approx. 336 lbs (152 kg) |
| Certifications | ASTM A36, ASTM A240, ASTM B209, EN 10088 |
| Material | 1/4" Plate Weight (per sq. ft) | Approx. Density |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon Steel | 10.2 lbs | 7.85 g/cm³ |
| Stainless Steel (304) | 10.4 lbs | 8.00 g/cm³ |
| Aluminum (6061) | 3.5 lbs | 2.70 g/cm³ |
Heavy-duty equipment base frames
Industrial floor plating and loading platforms
Trailer and truck bed reinforcements
Shipbuilding and marine components
Machine parts and enclosures
Structural bracing and supports in buildings
Tooling, dies, and molds for manufacturing
Railway car components
Choosing the right type of metal for your 1/4-inch plate depends on the environment and mechanical demands of your project.
| Material | Best For | Advantages |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon Steel (A36) | Structural frames, weldments | High strength, cost-effective |
| Stainless Steel (304/316) | Outdoor, corrosive environments | Corrosion resistance, clean finish |
| Aluminum (5052/6061) | Lightweight, marine, transport | Corrosion resistant, easy to work |
1/4 metal plate can be processed using the following methods:
Cutting: Plasma cutting, waterjet, laser, or saw cutting for different precision levels.
Welding: MIG and TIG are common; pre-cleaning is essential for stainless or aluminum.
Bending/Forming: Hydraulic press brakes are typically used to shape 1/4-inch plates.
A: A 1/4 inch plate is exactly 0.25 inches, which is equivalent to 6.35 mm.
A: A 1/4-inch thick carbon steel plate weighs approximately 10.2 lbs per square foot.
A: Yes, most MIG welders with sufficient power (above 200 amps) can weld 1/4-inch plates effectively.
A: Stainless steel (especially 316) is superior for outdoor and marine environments due to its corrosion resistance.
A: Not necessarily. It depends on your tools. With a good saw or plasma cutter, it's manageable for experienced hobbyists.
A: Yes, but it's recommended to use a press brake to prevent cracking, especially for hardened grades like 6061-T6.
A: Yes, many online metal suppliers offer instant quotes for custom dimensions and material types.
A: ASTM A36 covers most low-carbon structural steel plates. Always check certifications if your application is regulated.
The 1/4 metal plate is a robust, versatile material used across industries from construction and transport to heavy machinery and custom fabrication. Its balance of strength and workability makes it a top choice for engineers and DIYers alike.
