Most projects use more than one kind of steel. Here is a simple guide to what each product is for, and how it is usually named in India, so your enquiry is clear the first time.
Sheets and coils
Flat steel up to a few millimetres thick, supplied as coils or cut sheets. MS / HR sheets for general fabrication, CR sheets for neat formed and painted parts, and GP sheets where rust protection matters. Order by thickness, width and length, and grade.
Plates
Thicker flat steel, typically from about 5 mm upward, for base plates, tank shells, machine beds and heavy fabrication. Structural plates are commonly IS 2062 grade E250 or E350. Chequered plates give an anti-slip surface for floors, stairs and platforms.
Structural sections
| Section | Common name | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Channel | ISMC, for example ISMC 100 | Frames, purlins, trusses, machine bases |
| Beam | ISMB, or parallel flange NPB / WPB | Columns, girders, mezzanines, sheds |
| Angle | ISA, for example ISA 50×50×6 | Bracing, frames, supports, fabrication |
Section sizes are given in millimetres (depth, or leg × leg × thickness). Indian standard sections follow IS 808, and the steel is usually IS 2062.
Pipes and hollow sections
- Square and rectangular pipes (hollow sections, IS 4923): gates, grills, furniture, frames and light structures. Ordered by outside size and wall thickness, for example 40×40×2 mm.
- Round pipes: ERW pipes to IS 1239 for water and general use (light, medium and heavy class), and IS 1161 tubes for structural use. Ordered by nominal bore or outside diameter and wall thickness.
Writing a clear enquiry
For every item, mention the product, size, thickness, grade or standard, length and quantity (pieces or tonnes), plus your delivery location. Example: ISMC 100, IS 2062 E250, 6 m length, 2 tonnes, delivery Sanand.
Corner Angle supplies sheets, coils, plates, structural sections and pipes from one place, so you can send the whole list in one message.