A 12 gauge diamond plate steel typically measures 0.105 inches thick for mild steel and 0.109 inches thick for stainless steel.
The exact thickness of diamond plate steel, also known as checker plate or tread plate, depends on the type of steel used. While the gauge number provides a standard, different material compositions, such as mild steel versus stainless steel, can result in slight variations in actual thickness for the same gauge.
Understanding Diamond Plate Gauge and Thickness
Gauge is a traditional measurement system used for the thickness of sheet metal, where a lower gauge number indicates a thicker material. It's important to note that the gauge system is non-linear and not directly proportional to the thickness in inches.
Here's a breakdown of common diamond plate gauges and their corresponding thicknesses:
| Gauge | Mild Steel Thickness (inches) | Stainless Steel Thickness (inches) |
|---|---|---|
| 14 | 0.075 | 0.078 |
| 12 | 0.105 | 0.109 |
| 10 | 0.134 | 0.141 |
| 8 | 0.164 | 0.172 |
This table illustrates that while 12 gauge is a specific classification, the material—mild steel or stainless steel—determines the precise decimal thickness. This distinction is crucial for applications requiring exact dimensions or specific material properties.
