Specifications

IS 2062 composition and properties

Sub-grades A, BR, B0 and C differ in impact-test requirements and some limits; sub-grade C has lower sulphur and phosphorus. See IS 2062 for full requirements.

Values for plates, sections, flats and bars to IS 2062.

Sub-grades A, BR, B0 and C set the impact-test requirement; sub-grade C is impact tested at −20 °C. Equivalent international grades are ASTM A36 (E250) and A572 Grade 50 (E350), and EN 10025 S275 / S355.

ISMC weight chart

Weights are the nominal values for ISMC sections in IS 808, for guidance; please check the current edition of IS 808 for exact dimensions and section properties. Use our weight calculator for other shapes.

ISMC, ISJC and parallel flange channels

ISMC (Indian Standard Medium Channel) is the standard channel series for structures in India, with tapered inner flanges; the number is the depth in millimetres. ISJC (junior) and ISLC (light) are lighter sections for less heavily loaded members. Parallel flange channels (PFC) have flanges of constant thickness, which simplifies bolted connections, and are increasingly used in place of tapered sections. Channels are often used back to back, or toe to toe, to form symmetrical built-up members.

Protection, storage and fabrication

Mild steel rusts when exposed to moisture, so it is supplied black with a light oil or mill scale, or primed, painted or hot-dip galvanised as ordered. Store material off the ground, under cover where possible, and keep it away from stainless steel to avoid contaminating stainless surfaces. Mild steel cuts, drills, bends and welds easily with standard equipment and consumables; preheat is normally only needed for thick sections or higher-strength grades.

Quality, documents and dispatch

Every supply is checked against the order for grade, size, length and quantity, with heat numbers matched to the mill test certificates. Material is invoiced with GST for supplies in India and dispatched with an e-way bill where required, and exported with the commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin and MTC. Third-party inspection by the buyer's nominated agency can be arranged on request.

Standards explained

IS 2062 is the Indian standard for hot-rolled structural steel – plates, sections, flats and bars – and sets the chemistry, carbon equivalent, strength and impact requirements of each grade and sub-grade. Section dimensions and weights are set separately, in IS 808 for beams, channels and angles, and tolerances in IS 1852. When buying to international projects, ASTM A36 or A572 and EN 10025 grades are used instead; equivalents are approximate, so material should be certified to the standard named in the design.

Channels in structures

ISMC channels are used as purlins and girts in sheds, as stringers for stairs, as bases for equipment skids where the flat back sits on the foundation, and as chassis members in trailers. Because a channel is not symmetrical, loads through its web can twist it; designers brace channels or use two back to back. For heavier spans, beams are more efficient than channels of the same weight.

How to order MS channels

To get an accurate quotation quickly, please give: the section designation (for example ISMC 150), grade, length, quantity and finish. If the material is for a project with a specification or drawing, send it with the enquiry so the grade, sub-grade and testing can be matched. For export orders, also give the delivery port and any marking, packing or documentation requirements.

Applications and related products

MS channels are used for building frames and portals, purlins and girts, equipment skids and bases, vehicle and trailer chassis, crane rail supports, cable trays and pipe racks, and general fabrication. Other mild steel products: MS pipes, MS sheets, MS plates, MS angles, MS flats, MS beams and MS round bars. Grade information is on the mild steel page, and other materials on the channels page.