Introduction
When corrosion risk is real and downtime is costly, stainless steel plates protect your project and your reputation. The right grade simplifies fabrication, extends service life, and lowers total cost of ownership. This guide explains what matters, how to choose a grade with confidence, and how to specify tests and documents that pass inspection the first time.
What is a stainless steel plate
Stainless steel is iron with controlled chromium and often nickel, molybdenum, and other elements. A stable chromium oxide layer forms on the surface and resists rust. Different grades balance corrosion resistance, strength, and workability. Plates come in many thicknesses and sizes for structures, process equipment, and hygienic applications.
Why engineers choose stainless plates
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Strong resistance to corrosion in wet or chloride rich environments
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Cleanability for food, pharma, and water projects
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Consistent mechanical properties with dependable weldability
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Attractive finish that stays bright with minimal upkeep
How to pick the right grade
Start with the environment and cleaning regimen. Then line up the grade that fits.
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304 for general purpose use in mild to moderate environments. Good formability and weldability.
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316 for coastal and chloride exposure. Added molybdenum improves pitting resistance.
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310S for heat service. Stable at elevated temperature with good oxidation resistance.
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409 and 410 for automotive and heat shields where moderate corrosion resistance is acceptable.
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904L for aggressive chemical service with strong resistance to certain acids.
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Duplex 2205 for high strength with resistance to stress corrosion cracking in chlorides.
Check design codes, service temperature, and cleaning chemicals. If in doubt, share your process media and we will help you run a quick material compatibility review.
Visit our product page to explore sizes and supply scope for Stainless Steel Plates and compare options for your project. For quick support, you can also reach our team on the Contact Us page.
Standards and specifications you should quote
Clear specifications prevent delay and rework.
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Quote the relevant product standard such as ASTM, EN, or IS with the exact grade designation
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State thickness, width, length, edge condition, and finish number
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Call for EN 10204 type 3.1 mill test certificates with traceable heat numbers
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Define any impact test or corrosion test required by code or client
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If the plate will be pickled and passivated, state this in the purchase order
Surface finishes and fabrication
Finish affects both appearance and hygiene. It also changes how the plate behaves during forming and cleaning.
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No. 1 hot rolled annealed pickled for industrial service where a matte surface is acceptable
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No. 2B cold rolled for a smooth, easy to clean surface
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No. 4 brushed for architectural and visible equipment panels
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BA bright annealed for reflective and decorative use
Fabrication tips
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Use dedicated stainless tools to avoid carbon steel contamination
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Keep surfaces clean and dry before welding to prevent porosity
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Back purge austenitic grades for clean root welds where required
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After weld heat tint removal and passivation restore corrosion resistance
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Protect finished surfaces with films and careful handling during transport
Typical applications
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Food and beverage tanks, conveyors, and washdown areas
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Water treatment skids, RO frames, and piping supports
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Chemical process vessels, heat exchangers, and ducting
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Marine hatch covers, ladders, and deck hardware
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Pharma clean room furniture and equipment guards
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Architectural facades, cladding, and handrails
Quality assurance and documentation
A complete document set reduces risk at inspection.
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Mill test certificates with chemistry and mechanical results
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Ultrasonic testing or other NDT when project documents require it
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Surface finish confirmation and roughness values where hygiene matters
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Clear plate identification with heat numbers and grade marking
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Packing lists that support easy receiving and traceability
Why choose Namco Industries
Namco Industries supplies consistent chemistry control, precise rolling, and proven flatness. You get clear identification, reliable delivery slots, and responsive technical support from the enquiry to the handover stage. As a stainless steel plate manufacturer in India, we align supply with your fabrication plan so your shop stays productive and your site stays on schedule.
Conclusion
Choose the grade that matches your environment, lock the finish that suits your cleaning and appearance needs, and specify the documents that prove compliance. That is how projects stay safe, on time, and on budget. Ready to confirm sizing and delivery windows
Contact Namco Industries for a quick consult and a precise RFQ.