Understanding Plate Metal: Materials, Sizes & What Matters for Your Project

At JAMM Fabrication, we work with plate metal just about every day, but we know that for many of our clients, the differences in materials, thicknesses, and applications aren’t always clear. Whether you're designing a custom platform, retrofitting equipment, or building something big from the ground up, knowing your options can make a serious difference in how smoothly the job runs.

So, let’s break it down.

Plate metal is exactly what it sounds like: thick, flat metal used for projects that need strength, stability, and durability. It’s not the same as sheet metal, which is thinner and more flexible. Plate metal is what you turn to when things need to hold up under pressure. Structural builds, equipment reinforcements, heavy-duty platforms, and more all start with plate metal.

Here in Arkansas and Texas, where industry is always moving and builds need to last, we rely on several core types of plate metal in the shop. Carbon steel is a favorite for its all-purpose strength and easy weldability, solid for structural work and general fabrication. Stainless steel comes in when corrosion resistance matters most, like for exterior applications or projects exposed to moisture or chemicals. Aluminum is lighter and easier to work with in specific applications - think signage, transport, or anything that needs to stay tough without weighing you down. And if your project demands something even stronger, we also work with specialty alloys to meet those needs.

When it comes to sizing, the reality is this: not every job fits a standard mold. Plate metal typically starts at around 3/16" thick and can go up to several inches depending on the project. While 4'x8' is often the starting point for many standard plates, JAMM handles custom cuts and sizes all the time. We work with you to source what’s right for your build, whether that means sticking to the basics or dialing in custom dimensions from the start.

The real key is knowing what you’re building, how it’ll be used, and what kind of environment it’ll live in.

A platform in an industrial setting is going to need different specs than a decorative architectural element on the exterior of a commercial building. That's where our expertise comes in. We don’t just supply the metal - we help you figure out the right kind, the right thickness, and the right finish to make sure the project not only looks great but performs long-term.

At JAMM, we handle more than just cutting. Our fabrication process is full-circle. From CNC cutting and press brake forming to welding, sandblasting, and powder coating, we manage every part of the job in-house. That means your plate metal isn’t just shaped right - it’s treated right, finished right, and delivered ready to go. We even handle custom installs when needed.

What sets us apart isn’t just the range of services.

It’s the way we combine precision with flexibility. You won’t get bounced between vendors or delayed by third-party processing. Whether you’re in Central Arkansas, East Texas, or anywhere in between, we’re here to help you get it done fast, right, and with zero runaround.

So if you’re not sure which plate material fits your project best, or you need something custom-cut and ready to install, just reach out. We’ll talk you through it, make the process easy, and deliver the kind of quality that shows up long after the job is done.

Ready to get started?

We’re here to help. JAMM Fabrication serves clients across Texas and Arkansas with high-performance, precision-cut plate metal and full fabrication services - from first cut to final install.