What is Diamond Plate?

Diamond plate is a metal plate product that has a raised diamond-like pattern on the surface. This pattern creates increased traction for a person or object on top of the diamond plate. A variety of metals can be used to make diamond plate, adding to its versatility. Diamond plate can also have different patterns and varying projection heights depending on the application.

What is the Difference Between Diamond Plate, Tread Plate and Checker Plate?

There is really no difference between diamond plate, tread plate, and checker plate other than the name. For the most part, these names can be used interchangeably. All three names refer to the same shape of metal material.

Diamond Plate Metal Types

While most metals can be manufactured into diamond plate, Aluminum, Carbon Steel and Stainless Steel are substantially more popular than other metal types:

• Aluminum Diamond Plate: Aluminum alloys are frequently formed into diamond plate. 6061-T6 aluminum is used often because of its corrosion resistance as well as its excellent structural properties. 3003 aluminum is also used, although it is more noted for its luster and aesthetic appeal.
• Low to Medium Carbon Steel Diamond Plate:: Carbon steel is a popular diamond plate material for several reasons. First, carbon steel has excellent mechanical properties for structural applications. Second, carbon steel is a relatively affordable material when compared to stainless steel, aluminum, and other types of metals. This allows the end user to be able to buy large quantities of diamond plate in a cost-effective manner. A36 is often used for diamond plate.
• Stainless Steel Diamond Plate:: Sometimes it is necessary for diamond plate to be resistant to corrosion. Stainless steel diamond plate is often the best choice for the food and beverage industry and in applications where harsh chemicals may be used. Stainless steel diamond plate is also widely considered to be aesthetically pleasing. It is one of the more expensive types of diamond plate when compared with carbon steel and aluminum. Common grades include austenitic stainless steels such as 304 and 316, as well as martensitic grades such as 440C and 17-4 PH.

What is Diamond Plate Used For?

A common diamond plate application is for traction. Shipping docks are often made from diamond plate. They are able to resist the wear and cyclic loading of forklifts and heavy pallets while at the same time offering slip-resistance and ductility. Walkways and platforms are another common application, as well as for steps and running boards.

While diamond plate does offer increased traction to smooth surfaced metals, other types of slip-resistant surfaces may require more traction, especially in wet conditions. If a surface will be subject to liquids, then metal bar grating or metal safety grating may be more advantageous than diamond plate.

Another reason diamond plate is selected is for aesthetic purposes. The pattern of diamond plate is generally considered appealing. Items such as store signs, displays or bars and counters will sometimes be made out of diamond plate. Toolboxes are also frequently made out of diamond plate for cosmetic appeal.