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.
What Is a 1/4 Metal Plate?
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.
Standard Specifications
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
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
Machining & Fabrication Tips
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.
FAQ
Q: What is the actual thickness of a 1/4 metal plate in millimeters?
A: A 1/4 inch plate is exactly 0.25 inches, which is equivalent to 6.35 mm.
Q: How much does a 1/4 steel plate weigh per square foot?
A: A 1/4-inch thick carbon steel plate weighs approximately 10.2 lbs per square foot.
Q: Can I weld a 1/4 metal plate with a standard MIG welder?
A: Yes, most MIG welders with sufficient power (above 200 amps) can weld 1/4-inch plates effectively.
From the above reading you can know
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.
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