MS plate, which stands for “mild steel plate,” is a sheet of metal that is used in building, engineering, industry, and architecture with affordable price.
It is made of low-carbon mild steel, which is made by putting iron and coal in a blast furnace and melting them together.
In this article, we’ll talk about what MS plate is, what it’s used for, how big it is, what its specs are, how long it lasts, and how much MS plate price in the Philippines.
What MS Plate Means
MS plate is a short form of “low-carbon steel plate,” which is another name for “plain carbon steel plate.”
Mild steel has very little carbon (usually less than 0.3%) and other elements that make it stronger.
This makes it easier to bend, shape, and weld than high-carbon steel, but it also makes it weaker and softer.
It is often used with other products made of mild steel, such as MS pipe, MS bar, and MS angle.
MS Plate Use
MS plate is used a lot in building, engineering, manufacturing, and architecture. Some of the most common ways to use MS plate are:
- Building bridges, buildings, warehouses, factories, sheds, and other structures.
- Making things out of metal, like furniture, machinery, tools, and equipment.
- Making parts for cars, such as frames, chassis, and body panels.
- Shipbuilding and marine uses, such as hulls, decks, and bulkheads, are some examples.
- Pipeline construction and repair, such as for oil and gas pipelines, water pipes, and sewer lines.
- Systems for roofing and siding, such as corrugated sheets, tiles, and panels.
MS Plate Size and Price List
The length, width, and thickness of an MS plate make up its size. The sizes may be different depending on the needs of the manufacturer, the supplier, and the customer.
On the market, though, you can usually find a few standard sizes these were the standard sizes and price of MS plate in the Philippines:
| Size | Length | Width | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5mm | 2.44m | 1.22m | ₱559 |
| 2mm | 2.44m | 1.22m | ₱741 |
| 2.5mm | 2.44m | 1.22m | ₱926 |
| 3mm | 2.44m | 1.22m | ₱1,111 |
| 4mm | 2.44m | 1.22m | ₱1,481 |
| 5mm | 2.44m | 1.22m | ₱1,852 |
| 6mm | 2.44m | 1.22m | ₱2,222 |
| 8mm | 2.44m | 1.22m | ₱2,963 |
| 10mm | 2.44m | 1.22m | ₱3,704 |
| 12mm | 2.44m | 1.22m | ₱4,444 |
Note: Prices can change at any time because of changes in the market and availability.
MS Plate Specification
The specification of an MS plate is a list of its quality standards and technical requirements, such as its chemical composition, mechanical properties, and surface finish.
One popular specification for MS plate is ASTM A36, which is also known as structural steel or carbon steel plate just like checkered plate.
ASTM A36 says that MS plate should have the following elements in its chemical makeup:
| Element | Content (%) |
|---|---|
| Carbon | ≤0.26 |
| Manganese | ≤0.8 |
| Phosphorus | ≤0.04 |
| Sulfur | ≤0.05 |
The mechanical properties of MS plate should meet the following values:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Tensile strength | ≥400 MPa |
| Yield strength | ≥250 MPa |
| Elongation | ≥20% |
| Brinell hardness | ≤119 HB |
The surface finish of MS plate should be smooth, flat, and free from defects such as cracks, holes, dents, and scratches.
What are The Pros and Cons of MS Plate?
Depending on how it will be used and where it will be used, MS plate has both pros and cons. Here are some of the good things about it:
- Cost-effectiveness: Compared to stainless steel, alloy steel, and high-carbon steel, MS plate is less expensive. This makes it cheaper and easier to use in many different ways.
- Workability: It’s easy to cut, bend, weld, and shape MS plate into different shapes and sizes. This makes it more flexible and useful for many different things.
- Good weldability: MS plate is easy to join with other metals or materials by using different welding techniques. This makes it last longer and be more reliable for building and making things.
- High ductility: An MS plate has a high degree of ductility, which means that it can be bent or stretched without breaking or cracking. This makes it stronger and more flexible, so it can handle dynamic and impact loads better.
But there are also some downsides to think about:
- Low strength: MS plate isn’t as strong as other kinds of steel, so it can’t be used for heavy-duty or high-performance tasks.
- Low resistance to corrosion: When exposed to water, oxygen, chemicals, or salt, MS plate is likely to rust and corrode. To keep the environment from getting hurt, it needs to be taken care of and protected on a regular basis.
- Low hardness: When abrasion or friction happen, MS plate can get dents and scratches. This makes it more likely to wear and tear and makes it look less nice.
Thing You Should Know About MS Plate
Before purchasing or using MS plate, there are several important factors to consider for ensuring the best quality and value. Here are some tips:
- Select the right size: Measure your project’s dimensions and choose the appropriate size and thickness of MS plate. Thicker plates are stronger but heavier.
- Check specifications: Ensure the MS plate meets your quality standards and technical requirements. Compare specifications from different suppliers for the best choice.
- Research the supplier: Investigate the supplier’s reputation and credibility. Look for genuine, high-quality products at reasonable prices. Consider their customer service and delivery options.
- Use proper tools and techniques: Safely and efficiently cut, bend, weld, and shape MS plate using the correct tools and equipment. Wear protective gear to prevent accidents.
- Apply suitable coatings: Protect the MS plate from corrosion and damage by applying a suitable coating or paint. Consider both functionality and aesthetics.
- Regular maintenance: Keep the MS plate clean, inspect it regularly, and promptly address any issues. Replace damaged parts for optimal performance and durability.
Here some FAQ about MS Plate
- Why is MS plate used?
MS plate is used in construction for strength and flexibility. It is a common form of steel. - What is MS material used for?
MS material is versatile and found in various industries. It is used for car bodies, furniture, wire, rebar, fasteners, and structural plating. - Does MS plate rust?
Yes, mild steel can rust, but measures can be taken to address this issue and prevent corrosion. - Is mild steel strong?
Mild steel is highly strong, making it ideal for weight-bearing applications and easy welding. It is often referred to as structural steel. - How long can mild steel last?
Using normal mild steel with a minimum thickness of 4mm in steel water features can last up to 15 years.
