Why IS 2062 Is a Popular Grade for MS Plates in India
Mild steel (MS) plates are a backbone material in India’s construction, fabrication, and manufacturing sectors. Among the various grades available, IS 2062 has emerged as one of the most widely used standards for MS plates. Known for its balanced mechanical properties, weldability, and affordability, IS 2062 plates are trusted by engineers and fabricators alike across the country. But what exactly makes IS 2062 so popular? Let’s explore.
What is IS 2062?
IS 2062 is an Indian Standard published by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). It specifies the requirements for hot-rolled low carbon steel plates, sheets, and sections that are used in structural and engineering applications.
The standard ensures:
- Minimum yield strength
- Chemical composition
- Tensile strength
- Weldability and formability
- Impact resistance (in specific grades)
IS 2062 steel is commonly used in the form of Grade A, B, and C, with each grade differing slightly in terms of strength and chemical limits.
Key Reasons Why IS 2062 is So Widely Used
1. Reliability and Standardization
One of the primary reasons for IS 2062’s popularity is that it sets a clear benchmark for quality. Whether you're sourcing MS plates from a local vendor or a large steel manufacturer, IS 2062 ensures uniformity in mechanical and chemical properties. This standardization is crucial for structural stability in construction and industrial applications.
2. Versatile Mechanical Properties
IS 2062 MS plates offer a perfect balance of strength, ductility, and weldability. For instance, IS 2062 Grade A provides a minimum yield strength of 250 MPa, making it suitable for most structural applications like beams, columns, frames, and platforms.
More demanding applications can opt for Grade B or C, which offer slightly higher strength and better impact resistance, making IS 2062 flexible across use cases.
3. Excellent Weldability and Fabrication
A significant reason IS 2062 is chosen by fabricators is its low carbon content, which allows for easy cutting, bending, drilling, and welding. This workability speeds up fabrication processes and reduces the cost of manufacturing complex structures.
Because IS 2062 steel can be easily joined through arc welding, MIG welding, or gas welding, it is highly preferred in:
- Heavy machinery frames
- Bridges
- Industrial sheds
- Railway wagons
4. Readily Available Across India
IS 2062 grade plates are manufactured by almost all leading steel producers in India. Brands like SAIL, JSW, Tata Steel, and Jindal make IS 2062 plates in various sizes and thicknesses, making them easily accessible whether you're in a metro city or a tier-2 town.
With the rise of digital steel marketplaces like Hashtagsteel, buyers can even source IS 2062 plates online with just a few clicks, ensuring doorstep delivery and price transparency.
5. Cost-Effective for Large Projects
Compared to higher-grade alloy steels or stainless steel, IS 2062 mild steel plates are cost-effective, especially when procured in bulk for infrastructure projects. For industries that prioritize strength and economy over corrosion resistance, IS 2062 provides the ideal solution.
6. Compliance with Structural Codes
Most government and private tenders in infrastructure, energy, and industrial sectors specifically mention IS 2062 compliance as a requirement. Since this grade aligns with the National Building Code (NBC) and other structural steel norms, it becomes the default choice for engineers and project consultants.
Common Applications of IS 2062 Plates
Thanks to its versatility, IS 2062 plates are widely used in:
- Buildings and bridges
- Heavy equipment manufacturing
- Shipbuilding and railway wagons
- Oil and gas platforms
- Storage tanks and containers
- Fabricated steel structures
Final Thoughts
IS 2062 isn’t just a steel grade—it’s a symbol of quality assurance and engineering reliability in India. Whether you're building a small warehouse or executing a mega infrastructure project, MS plates conforming to IS 2062 offer the strength, flexibility, and affordability needed to get the job done right.
With its proven track record, standardized properties, and broad availability, it's no surprise that IS 2062 continues to be the go-to choice for MS plates in the Indian market.