Short answer: Stainless steel sheet thickness is often described by gauge number. This chart converts common U.S. Standard gauge numbers to millimeters and inches, helping buyers specify the right material for fabrication, roofing, and equipment.
At a Glance
What Is Sheet Gauge?
Gauge is a historical way to describe metal thickness. In the U.S. Standard system, a higher gauge number means a thinner sheet. For example, 24 gauge is much thinner than 12 gauge. The gauge system is not linear, so a conversion chart is essential.
How to Read the Chart
The chart above lists common gauge numbers from 8 to 24 with the corresponding thickness in millimeters and inches. Use it to translate between supplier specifications and your drawing or fabrication requirements.
Always confirm whether your supplier quotes gauge by U.S. Standard, Birmingham (BWG), or manufacturer-specific tolerances, because these systems differ slightly.
Choosing the Right Thickness
- Thin gauges (22–26): Decorative panels, light cladding, and thin trim.
- Mid gauges (16–20): Kitchen equipment, countertops, tanks, and general fabrication.
- Heavy gauges (8–14): Structural sections, heavy tanks, and wear-resistant parts. At these thicknesses, the product is usually called plate rather than sheet.
304, 316, and 430 Sheet Thickness
HXSCO supplies 304 스테인리스 강판, 316 스테인리스 강판및 430 sheet in gauges from 24 gauge up to plate thickness. We can provide 2B, BA, No.4, No.8, and custom finishes with slitting, shearing, and laser cutting.
Ordering by Gauge or by mm
If you have a drawing in millimeters, order by exact mm thickness and state the tolerance you need. If your shop works in gauge, include the gauge number and whether it is U.S. Standard. Providing both reduces the risk of receiving the wrong thickness.
자주 묻는 질문
1 mm stainless steel is approximately 20 gauge in the U.S. Standard system.
2 mm stainless steel is approximately 14 gauge in the U.S. Standard system.
16 gauge stainless steel is about 1.59 mm or 0.0625 inches thick.
Sheet is generally thinner than about 6 mm (0.25 inch). Plate is 6 mm and thicker. The exact cutoff can vary by supplier and standard.
Yes. HXSCO can supply custom thicknesses, widths, and lengths in 304, 316, 430, and 201, with optional cutting and surface finishing.
Ready to source stainless steel?
Tell us the grade, size, quantity, and destination. HXSCO will reply with a competitive quote, lead time, and mill-test options.
Request a QuoteWhy Buyers Trust HXSCO for Stainless Steel
HXSCO is a stainless steel supplier serving manufacturers, fabricators, and trading companies worldwide. We stock 304, 304L, 316, 316L, 430, 201, and duplex grades in plate, sheet, coil, pipe, tube, and bar forms. Every order can be supplied with mill-test certificates, third-party inspection, and custom cutting/shearing to your drawing. Contact HXSCO for a project-specific quote or material recommendation.