Diamond Plate

                                                                                         

Diamond plate can be defined as a kind of a metal stock which has a regular pattern of raised lines or diamonds. The small perpendicular lines set on the diagonal plane give the impression of small diamond like shapes. This is how it gets the name, because of the raised tread or diamond like designs on the plate’s surface.
Metal used
These plates are usually made of steel or aluminum.
Alternative Name
On a broader note, sometimes diamond plate is also termed as 'tread plate'. But then again, the term can also be used for describing just another anti-slip texture.
Types
Diamond plates can come in both rough finish as well as polished finish. Usually the toolboxes and custom made running boards are made up of plates with shiny finish.
Use
Diamond plates find a variety of usage. Mostly these are used in making stairs. Also, the catwalks used in the industrial settings are made out of these plates. This is because, the texture of these plates reduce the risks of slipping. Besides these, diamond plate can also be used for decorative purposes.
Cleaning
The things needed for cleaning a diamond plate are enlisted as follows:
• Phosphoric acid
• Metal polish
• Latex gloves
• Clean soft rags
• Protective eyewear
• Nylon scrubbing pads
The dirt on the plate is first removed with a power washer and dried. Now, the person cleaning the plate needs to wear protective eye glasses and put on latex gloves. Then keeping the plate on the gravel, phosphoric acid is sprayed on it and left on for few minutes before scrubbing away the dirt with the nylon pads. For plates with an extra clear coat, phosphoric acid can be replaced with paint polish. Then the plate is cleaned with water and wiped dry. The last step is applying the metal polish. For that shiny finish, the soft wool buffer is rubbed in circular motion over the plate.

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