How to choose steel grating? Buyer's guide

Steel grating is a strong, open-grid structure made of metal bars—designed to support weight while letting water, air, and light pass through. It's widely used for industrial walkways, drainage covers, stair treads, platforms, and architectural designs.

Whether you're building a factory floor or need safe access around heavy machinery, steel grating is a practical and reliable solution.

What are the raw materials of steel grating?

Steel grating is typically made from:

Mild steel (carbon steel) – Strong and cost-effective

Stainless steel (304/316) – Corrosion-resistant and hygienic

Aluminum – Lightweight and rustproof (used in specific environments)

To protect against corrosion, grating is often hot-dip galvanized, or powder-coated for color and aesthetics.

Steel Grating Types at a Glance

Application-Based Grating Recommendations

Below is a detailed breakdown of common application scenarios and the most suitable grating types and configurations for each.

1. Industrial Platforms & Walkways

Recommended Type: Welded steel grating (30x100 mm or 40x100 mm)

Surface: Serrated for safety

Finish: Hot-dip galvanized for corrosion resistance

Why: Offers excellent strength-to-weight ratio, with open design to prevent water/oil accumulation.

Typical Industries: Petrochemical, manufacturing, shipbuilding

2. Drainage Covers & Trench Grates

Recommended Type: Welded or heavy-duty steel grating

Surface: Plain or serrated, depending on foot traffic

Material: Carbon steel or ductile iron-reinforced

Why: Supports pedestrian or light vehicular loads while allowing efficient drainage.

Installed in: Roadsides, parking lots, industrial zones

3. Stair Treads

Recommended Type: Welded grating with nosing plate

Surface: Serrated (mandatory for safety compliance)

Add-ons: Bolt holes for mounting, anti-slip nosing

Why: Excellent anti-slip performance and load capacity under frequent traffic.

Widely used in: Oil rigs, factories, access towers

4. Catwalks & Maintenance Bridges

Recommended Type: Lightweight welded grating

Surface: Serrated

Material: Galvanized carbon steel

Why: Lightweight, easy to install, and safe for elevated areas.

For rooftop catwalks, plant maintenance paths

5. Architectural & Public Areas

Recommended Type: Press-locked steel grating

Surface: Smooth/plain

Material: Stainless steel or powder-coated mild steel

Why: Clean aesthetics, precision spacing, safe for public use

Applications: Building facades, sunshades, public ventilation covers

6. Food & Chemical Processing Plants

Recommended Type: Stainless steel grating (Grade 304 or 316)

Surface: Smooth or lightly serrated

Why: Corrosion-resistant, hygienic, compliant with sanitary regulations

 Used in: Dairy, pharmaceutical, breweries, chemical platforms

7. Vehicle-Access Zones (Heavy-Duty Use)

 Recommended Type: Heavy-duty steel grating (e.g., 50x100 or custom spacing)

Surface: Plain or serrated

Finish: Hot-dip galvanized

Why: Withstands truck or forklift traffic, long lifespan under impact loads

Examples: Loading docks, container yards, airports

Why Choose Hengchen as Your Steel Grating Partner

10 Years of Manufacturing Experience: we have over 10+ years' expertise in steel grating manufacturing, offering high-quality products tailored to various project needs.

Customized Solutions: We provide personalized designs to ensure perfect fit for different engineering requirements.

Strict Quality Control: With advanced equipment and rigorous processes, Hengchen guarantees durability and reliability.

30+ Production Lines: Ensuring high-quality, on-time delivery.

Stocked Standard Products: Factory-direct shipping at competitive prices.

Excellent Service: Providing professional support to meet every client's needs.