Hot Rolled Plates
About Hot Rolled Plates
Hot rolled steel plate provides 36,000 PSI minimum yield strength, excellent formability, and superior weldability. Conforms to ASTM A36. Ideal for structural base plates, gussets, and general fabrication. In-stock with custom cutting.
Quick Facts
- Material: A36 Hot Rolled Steel
- ASTM Standard: A36
- Available Sizes: Thicknesses from 3/16" to 3/8"
- Location: Los Angeles warehouse
- Services: Custom size, same-day pickup
Overview
Hot rolled steel plate, commonly known as A36 grade, is a versatile carbon steel used for structural applications. The hot rolling process results in a rougher, scaled surface finish and looser tolerances compared to cold rolled steel. This material's composition makes it easy to weld, machine, and form, providing a reliable and economical option for projects where high strength-to-weight ratios and precise finishes are not the primary requirements.
The primary benefit of A36 steel plate is its guaranteed minimum yield strength of 36,000 PSI, ensuring predictable performance in structural designs. Its excellent weldability allows for easy assembly of complex structures using common welding methods. This combination of strength, workability, and cost-effectiveness makes it a foundational material for construction, equipment manufacturing, and industrial repairs where robust performance is essential.
Technical Specifications
Mechanical Properties
| Property | Value | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 58,000-80,000 | PSI |
| Yield Strength | 36,000 | PSI |
| Elongation | 20 | % |
| Hardness | 119-162 | HB |
Applicable Standards
- ASTM A36: Standard Specification for Carbon Structural Steel
Common Applications
- Construction: Column base plates, gusset plates for trusses, and structural shims due to its reliable strength.
- Industrial Equipment: Machinery frames, mounting pads, and support brackets that require good weldability.
- General Fabrication: Welded assemblies, repair patches, and miscellaneous structural components.
- Transportation: Trailer frames, crossmembers, and flatbed components where durability is critical.
- Marine & Shipbuilding: Non-critical structural members and barge components.
- Agricultural Equipment: Frames, hitches, and implement attachments that need to withstand rough use.
Working with Hot Rolled Plates
Machining
A36 hot rolled plate has fair machinability due to its soft, ductile nature. Using slow speeds, high feed rates, and a good cutting fluid is recommended to prevent gummy chip buildup. Tolerances are limited by the material's surface scale and internal stresses.
Welding
This material offers excellent weldability. It can be easily welded using any standard welding method, including MIG, TIG, and stick welding, without requiring pre-heating or post-heating for most thicknesses. It is a preferred material for fabricated assemblies.
Finishing
The surface has a dark, mill scale finish that can be removed by grinding, sandblasting, or acid pickling. For corrosion protection, A36 plate must be primed, painted, or galvanized after the surface has been properly prepared.
Related Products
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between hot rolled plate and cold rolled sheet?
A: Hot rolled plate has a rougher, scaled surface and is formed at high temperatures, making it ideal for structural uses where finish is less critical. Cold rolled sheet is processed further at room temperature for a smooth finish and tighter tolerances.
Q: Is A36 plate suitable for outdoor use?
A: By itself, A36 steel has poor corrosion resistance and will rust. For outdoor applications, it must be protected with a coating such as paint, powder coating, or hot-dip galvanizing to prevent corrosion.
Q: When should I use A36 plate instead of A572-50 plate?
A: Use A36 for general-purpose structural applications where its 36,000 PSI yield strength is sufficient. Choose the higher-strength A572-50 (50,000 PSI yield) when you need to reduce weight or handle greater loads in a structural component of the same size.
Stock & Custom Sizes
Available thicknesses: 3/16", 1/4", 5/16", 11/32", and 3/8". Standard plate sizes include 4Ã10 ft. Custom size available.
Same-day cutting and Los Angeles pickup available.
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