What are the Standard Cutting Tolerances for Steel Plates?

What are the Standard Cutting Tolerances for Steel Plates?
In steel fabrication and construction, precision is paramount. Understanding standard cutting tolerances for steel plates ensures structural integrity, cost efficiency, and project success. This guide outlines key tolerance standards for different cutting methods, helping you make informed decisions for your projects.

Standard Tolerances for Mechanical Shearing
Mechanical shearing suits straight-line cuts on thinner plates. Key standards include:

Width/Length: For cold shearing, the permissible deviation in dimensions without tolerance indication for parts width and length is typically ±3.0 mm .

Edge Straightness: The deviation for edge straightness should generally not exceed 0.08% of the length .

Bow (Sickle Bend): Should be ≤0.2 mm per meter after shearing .

For plates under 12 mm thickness sheared on straight-edge machines like Gap Sire or Square Sire, standard dimensional tolerances and straightness/squareness tolerances apply as per KS B 0416 . The JB/T 4381-2011 standard specifies permissible limit deviations for shearing of metal plates below 12 mm thickness .

Standard Tolerances for Thermal Cutting (Oxy-Fuel/Plasma)
Thermal cutting methods allow complex shapes and handle thicker materials. Typical allowances include:

Width/Length: Similar to mechanical shearing, thermal cutting typically allows ±3.0 mm for part width and length .

Flatness: The cut surface flatness should not exceed 0.05t (t=plate thickness) and never more than 2.0 mm .

Surface Texture: Cut surface roughness depth typically should not exceed 0.3 mm .

Factors Influencing Cutting Tolerances
Several factors affect achievable tolerances:

Plate Thickness: Thicker materials generally have larger permissible tolerance zones. Standards like ISO 7452 address tolerances for plates from 3mm to 400mm thick .

Cutting Temperature: Shearing should avoid the 300°C-400°C "blue brittleness" zone .

Equipment and Tooling: Proper blade gap setting is crucial - typically 6%-10% of plate thickness .

Material Properties: Higher strength steels require specific considerations.

Why Tolerances Matter in Steel Plate Cutting
Adherence to cutting tolerances is crucial for:

Structural Integrity: Ensures components fit and perform as designed.

Project Efficiency: Reduces rework, delays, and cost overruns.

Quality Compliance: Meets international standards like ISO , EN , and KS .

Ruixiang Steel's Commitment to Precision
At Ruixiang Steel, we combine expertise with state-of-the-art cutting technology to deliver steel plates that consistently meet or exceed standard tolerance requirements. Our quality assurance processes ensure every cut meets precise specifications, providing reliable materials for your most demanding applications.

Contact us today to discuss your steel plate requirements and experience the Ruixiang difference in quality and precision.