SSAB introduce new dimension programme for heavy plates

Steel manufacturer increases maximum weight of heavy thick plates across all steel grades

SSAB have broadened their dimension programme and maximum plate weight for their heavy thick plates. Plates are now available up to 18 tonnes, which makes processing for a wider range of applications more cost-efficient. All steel grades are available in these new formats according to the respective dimension programme.

‘We can now offer customers a more complete product portfolio,’ said Jenny Brandberg Hurtig, product manager at SSAB. ‘With our heavy thick plates now available in almost double the previously available size, this means clear savings, especially for steel service centers, as nesting can be more efficient. There is also less scrap in the process, and we are also able to serve more customers by offering heavier and longer plates for use in a wider range of applications.’

SSAB say steel service centers can improve yield by up to 6–7% by utilizing their new heavy thick plates. In some applications, such as rails and cog racks, bigger plates can also mean less welding, which in turn improves safety and efficiency.

Heavy thick plates are now available up to 18 tonnes, compared with 11 tonnes previously. Maximum thickness is currently 160mm, while continuous research and development is being carried out to offer even thicker plates. Maximum width, length and thicknesses for each grade are defined in the dimension programmes. According to SSAB, heavy thick plates have consistent high-quality properties throughout their thickness.

All steel grades manufactured by SSAB – from high-strength structural, wear-resistant and standard milder steels – are available in these larger formats, and the new heavy plate dimensions are already available as regular mill orders.