Kumar IronUpdated
In this guide
HR sheet: hot rolled
HR sheet is rolled while the steel is red hot. It has a rougher, bluish grey surface with a thin scale, and the thickness tolerance is looser. It is cheaper and available in thicker gauges, so it is the usual choice for structural and heavy work.
- Typical use: tank bodies, base plates, gussets, frames, machinery parts, and trailer bodies.
- Welds and cuts easily. Needs painting or galvanising to stop rust.
CR sheet: cold rolled
CR sheet is HR sheet that has been rolled further at room temperature. The surface is smooth, the thickness is more accurate, and the edges are cleaner. It is made in thinner gauges and costs more per kilogram.
- Typical use: doors, almirahs, furniture, cabinets, shutters, and parts that will be powder coated or painted.
- Better surface finish, but also rusts if left unprotected.
Chequered plate
Chequered plate, also called tread plate, is steel sheet with a raised diamond pattern on one face. The pattern gives grip.
- Typical use: stair treads, platform floors, ramps, truck and trailer floors, and covers over drains.
- Thickness is quoted without the pattern height, so check how the dealer measures it.
Choosing at a glance
| Type | Surface | Typical thickness | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| HR sheet | Rough, scaled | Thicker, from about 2 mm up | Structural and heavy fabrication |
| CR sheet | Smooth, clean | Thinner, often under 3 mm | Doors, furniture, finished goods |
| Chequered plate | Raised pattern | Typically 3 mm and above | Floors, ramps, treads |
| GI sheet | Zinc coated | Thin gauges | Ducting, roofing and outdoor covers |
Thickness ranges vary by mill. Ask for the exact thickness and the sheet size before ordering.
Sheet weight
Weight in kg = length in m x width in m x thickness in mm x 7.85. A 8 ft x 4 ft sheet is 2.44 m x 1.22 m = 2.98 m². At 3 mm thickness the weight is 2.98 x 3 x 7.85 = about 70 kg. Sheets are normally sold by weight, so this tells you what you will pay for.
Frequently asked questions
- Is HR or CR sheet better for a door?
- CR gives a smoother finish and takes paint better, so it is the usual choice for doors and cabinets. HR is fine for rough or hidden parts.
- How much does a 3 mm 8 x 4 ft sheet weigh?
- About 70 kg, using length x width x thickness x 7.85.
- Do you have chequered plates?
- Yes, along with HR, CR and galvanised sheets. Send us the thickness and size on WhatsApp and we will confirm stock and rate.