Hot Rolled Steel Plates: Sourcing, Types, and Buyer's Guide
Hot rolled steel plates are a fundamental material in construction, manufacturing, and heavy industries. Their durability, cost-effectiveness, and versatility make them indispensable for structural applications. This guide covers sourcing strategies, types, and practical tips for buyers.
How to Find Reliable Hot Rolled Steel Plates from China in 2025
China remains a top supplier due to competitive pricing and advanced production capabilities. To ensure quality:
- Verify supplier certifications (ISO 9001, CE, etc.)
- Request mill test reports for material properties
- Check customer reviews on Alibaba or industry forums
- Consider third-party inspection services like SGS
Leading Chinese manufacturers like Baowu Group and Ansteel offer ASTM A36/A572 compliant plates with 2,500+ tons monthly capacity.
What Buyers Should Know Before Buying Hot Rolled Steel Plates from China
Key considerations include:
- Thickness tolerance: Standard ±0.1mm for plates under 10mm
- Surface finish: Mill scale is typical; shot blasting available
- Lead time: 15-30 days for customized sizes
- Shipping costs: FOB prices often exclude 10-15% logistics fees
Types of Hot Rolled Steel Plates
Structural Grade (ASTM A36)
Yield strength: 250 MPa. Used in buildings and bridges.
High-Strength Low-Alloy (ASTM A572)
Yield strength: 345 MPa. Ideal for heavy equipment.
Weathering Steel (ASTM A588)
Forms protective rust layer for outdoor use.
Functions and Features of Hot Rolled Steel Plates
Advantages over cold-rolled alternatives:
- Lower production cost (20-30% savings)
- Better weldability due to softer microstructure
- Available in thicknesses from 1.2mm to 200mm
- Typical widths: 1,500mm to 3,500mm
Scenarios of Hot Rolled Steel Plates
Common applications:
- Construction: I-beams, columns (60% of global usage)
- Shipbuilding: Hull plates requiring ABS/DNV certification
- Mining: Chassis for dump trucks
- Energy: Wind turbine towers
How to Choose Hot Rolled Steel Plates
Selection criteria:
- Match mechanical properties to load requirements
- Consider corrosion resistance needs
- Evaluate cutting/welding compatibility
- Compare prices: $500-$800/ton for standard grades
Hot Rolled Steel Plates Q & A
Q: What's the difference between HR and CR steel plates?
A: Hot rolled plates have rougher surfaces but better formability, while cold rolled offers tighter tolerances.
Q: How to prevent warping during welding?
A: Use intermittent welding techniques and clamp plates firmly.
Q: Minimum order quantity from Chinese suppliers?
A: Typically 5 tons, but some accept 1-ton trial orders.
Q: Can hot rolled plates be galvanized?
A: Yes, after surface cleaning to remove mill scale.
Q: Lead time for 20mm thick plates?
A: 2-3 weeks for standard sizes, 4 weeks for custom cuts.
