Steel Sheet

All you need to know about steel sheet

Sheet, Foil, or Plate? Understanding Thickness

Steel sheet is defined by its thickness:

• Foil or leaf refers to ultra-thin metal
• Sheet is typically under 6 mm thick
• Plate is anything over 6 mm (0.25 in)

This classification helps determine the right product for your application, whether you’re fabricating components or constructing larger structures.

Available Formats: Flat Sheets & Coils

Steel sheet is supplied in two primary formats:

• Flat sheets – Ideal for immediate fabrication
• Coils – Produced by roll slitting, suitable for high-volume or automated processing

We stock both options to meet the demands of large and small-scale projects alike.

Gauge Explained: Measuring Thickness

Steel sheet thickness is measured in gauge:

• Common steel sheet ranges from 30 gauge (very thin) to 8 gauge (much thicker)
• The higher the gauge number, the thinner the sheet
• For non-ferrous metals like aluminium or copper, thickness is measured differently (e.g. in ounces for copper)

Knowing the correct gauge ensures the right strength, flexibility, and finish for your needs.

Material Options

Steel sheet is available in a wide range of materials to suit varied applications:

• Common choices: Mild steel, galvanised steel, stainless steel
• Other metals: Aluminium, brass, copper, nickel, titanium
• Specialist/decorative options: Silver, gold, platinum (also used in catalytic processes)

We offer a comprehensive selection of steel sheet products to suit everything from structural work to decorative finishes.

Applications & Industry Use

Sheet metal plays a crucial role in many sectors:

• Automotive: Car bodies and panels
• Aerospace: Aircraft wings and structural elements
• Construction: Roof cladding and architectural facades
• Medical: Equipment and surfaces such as operating tables
• Electrical: Laminated steel cores for transformers and electric machines

Historically, sheet metal was used in plate armour for cavalry and continues to feature in decorative elements like horse tack. The trade even carries its own nickname—“Tin Bashers” or “Tin Knockers”—a nod to the traditional craft of hammering seams in tin roofing.