MS Channel is a hot-rolled mild steel structural section with a channel-shaped profile.
The cross-section generally resembles the letter C or U, with a central web and two flanges.
The Indian Standard IS 808 covers nominal dimensions, mass and sectional properties of hot-rolled steel beam, column, channel and angle sections.
What does ISMC mean?
ISMC stands for Indian Standard Medium Weight Channel.
ISMC channel designations such as ISMC 100, ISMC 150 or ISMC 200 identify standard channel sections.
For example:
- ISMC 100 → nominal depth of 100 mm
- ISMC 150 → nominal depth of 150 mm
- ISMC 200 → nominal depth of 200 mm
The complete section also has a specified flange width, web thickness, flange thickness and standard mass per metre.
Types of MS Channels
MS channels are available in different section categories and configurations.
1. ISMC — Indian Standard Medium Weight Channel
ISMC is one of the most commonly referenced channel sections for structural and fabrication work.
Common designations include:
- ISMC 75
- ISMC 100
- ISMC 125
- ISMC 150
- ISMC 175
- ISMC 200
- ISMC 225
- ISMC 250
- ISMC 300
- ISMC 350
- ISMC 400
The standard IS 808 table lists dimensions and mass for these medium-weight channel sections.
2. ISLC — Indian Standard Light Channel
Light channel sections are designed with lower section weight than corresponding medium sections.
They can be considered where the structural design permits a lighter section.
The selection should always be based on the required structural properties rather than weight alone.
3. ISJC — Indian Standard Junior Channel
Junior channels are lighter channel sections used for suitable light-duty applications.
Their suitability depends on the design requirement, dimensions and load conditions.
4. Fabricated or Cold-Formed C Channels
Apart from hot-rolled ISMC sections, the market also includes fabricated or cold-formed C-channel profiles.
These should not automatically be treated as equivalent to a hot-rolled ISMC section.
For procurement, always check:
- Material specification
- Section dimensions
- Thickness
- Manufacturing process
- Applicable standard
- Grade
- Mill/test certificate where required
MS Channel Sizes Available in India
The commonly referenced ISMC range extends from 75 mm to 400 mm nominal depth.
Below is a practical reference table based on the IS 808:1989 medium-weight channel data.
| MS Channel | Approx. Size (D × B) | Web Thickness | Flange Thickness | Weight |
| ISMC 75 | 75 × 40 mm | 4.8 mm | 7.5 mm | 7.14 kg/m |
| ISMC 100 | 100 × 50 mm | 5.0 mm | 7.7 mm | 9.56 kg/m |
| ISMC 125 | 125 × 65 mm | 5.3 mm | 8.2 mm | 13.10 kg/m |
| ISMC 150 | 150 × 75 mm | 5.7 mm | 9.0 mm | 16.80 kg/m |
| ISMC 175 | 175 × 75 mm | 6.0 mm | 10.2 mm | 19.60 kg/m |
| ISMC 200 | 200 × 75 mm | 6.2 mm | 11.4 mm | 22.30 kg/m |
| ISMC 225 | 225 × 80 mm | 6.5 mm | 12.4 mm | 26.10 kg/m |
| ISMC 250 | 250 × 80 mm | 7.2 mm | 14.1 mm | 30.60 kg/m |
| ISMC 300 | 300 × 90 mm | 7.8 mm | 13.6 mm | 36.30 kg/m |
| ISMC 350 | 350 × 100 mm | 8.3 mm | 13.5 mm | 42.70 kg/m |
| ISMC 400 | 400 × 100 mm | 8.8 mm | 15.3 mm | 50.10 kg/m |
Important: Actual supplied dimensions and mass can vary within applicable manufacturing tolerances. For structural procurement, confirm the manufacturer’s specification and applicable standard before ordering.
Which MS Channel size should you choose?
There is no single channel size that is suitable for every project.
For example, a fabricator making a light frame may require a smaller section, while a structural application carrying a higher load may require a larger section.
The final selection should be made from the engineering design and load requirements.
MS Channel Weight Chart
Weight is one of the most important factors when buying MS Channel because steel channels are commonly purchased and quoted by weight.
Common ISMC weights
| Channel | Weight per Metre | Approx. Weight per 6 m |
| ISMC 75 | 7.14 kg/m | 42.84 kg |
| ISMC 100 | 9.56 kg/m | 57.36 kg |
| ISMC 125 | 13.10 kg/m | 78.60 kg |
| ISMC 150 | 16.80 kg/m | 100.80 kg |
| ISMC 175 | 19.60 kg/m | 117.60 kg |
| ISMC 200 | 22.30 kg/m | 133.80 kg |
| ISMC 225 | 26.10 kg/m | 156.60 kg |
| ISMC 250 | 30.60 kg/m | 183.60 kg |
| ISMC 300 | 36.30 kg/m | 217.80 kg |
| ISMC 350 | 42.70 kg/m | 256.20 kg |
| ISMC 400 | 50.10 kg/m | 300.60 kg |
The 6-metre figures above are calculated from the tabulated kg/m values; they are estimates for planning and should not replace actual weighment where exact billing weight is required.
The underlying ISMC mass-per-metre values are given in IS 808:1989 references.
Why does channel weight matter?
Weight helps with:
- Material quantity estimation
- Transport planning
- Project costing
- Purchase orders
- Stock management
- Fabrication planning
- Comparing different channel sections
How to Calculate MS Channel Weight
The basic calculation is simple when the standard weight per metre is known.
Formula
Total Weight = Weight per Metre × Total Length
Example
Suppose you need 10 pieces of ISMC 150, each 6 metres long.
ISMC 150 has a tabulated weight of approximately 16.80 kg/m in the referenced IS 808 table.
Total length:
10 × 6 = 60 metres
Estimated weight:
60 × 16.80 = 1,008 kg
So the estimated total quantity is approximately 1.008 tonnes.
This is a useful calculation for preparing a preliminary purchase requirement.
Common Uses of MS Channels
MS Channels are widely used in construction, fabrication and industrial applications.
1. Structural Frames
Channels can be used as components of structural frames where the selected section is suitable for the design.
2. Fabrication Work
Fabricators use channel sections for suitable:
- Frames
- Supports
- Brackets
- Bases
- Machine structures
- Fabricated assemblies
3. Roofing and Shed Structures
Depending on the structural design, channels can form part of support and framing systems used in industrial sheds and other structures.
4. Staircase Structures
Appropriately designed channel sections can be used as structural members in staircase fabrication.
The required section depends on span, load, connection and design requirements.
5. Equipment Supports
MS channels may be incorporated into bases and support structures for industrial equipment.
6. Industrial Fabrication
Channel sections are useful when a strong structural profile is required as part of a fabricated assembly.
Practical Example for a Fabricator
Hypothetical example:
A fabricator needs to make a rectangular support frame for an industrial application.
Instead of selecting a channel purely because it is cheaper, the fabricator should first check:
- Required dimensions
- Design load
- Span
- Connection method
- Required section properties
- Material grade
- Quantity required
- Available stock length
- Cutting requirements
- Final delivered price
This approach reduces the risk of buying an unsuitable section simply because it has a lower per-kg price.
How to Choose the Right MS Channel
Choosing an MS Channel should start with the application, not the price.
Consider these factors
1. Load
Determine how much load the member is expected to carry.
For structural applications, load calculations should be performed by a qualified structural engineer.
2. Span
Longer spans can require different section properties than shorter spans.
A larger channel is not automatically the correct solution; the complete structural design matters.
3. Channel Depth
The ISMC designation generally indicates the nominal depth of the section.
For example, ISMC 200 is a 200 mm nominal-depth channel.
4. Thickness
Web and flange thickness affect the section’s mass and structural properties.
5. Material Grade
Confirm the required steel grade from the project specification.
For example, IS 2062 is a commonly referenced standard for hot-rolled structural steel products. Always verify the grade specified for your particular application.
6. Length
Confirm whether you require:
- Full-length material
- Cut pieces
- Specific fixed lengths
7. Quantity
Bulk requirements may have different commercial terms from small retail quantities.
8. Delivery Location
Freight can have a meaningful effect on the final delivered cost, especially for bulky steel products.
MS Channel Price in India
MS Channel prices are market-dependent and change with grade, size, quantity, location, freight, taxes and supplier.
Therefore, a single “today’s price” should not be treated as a permanent national rate.
As a current market reference, OfBusiness was listing channel prices in the broad range of about ₹55–₹80/kg, with specific examples varying by grade, section and location.
A July 2026 market reference from RLG Ispat showed indicative ISMC ranges of approximately ₹54–₹73/kg, depending on section category and market conditions, before applicable freight and GST.
Jaipur market references also show that quoted MS Channel rates can vary between suppliers and specifications. One recent Jaipur listing showed an indicative ₹60–₹77/kg range for ISMC 100.
Price note: These are market references, not NR Iron Store’s fixed quotation. For an actual purchase, ask for a current quote based on the exact size, grade, quantity and delivery location.
Indicative MS Channel Price Guide
| Market Reference | Indicative Price |
| Lower market quotations | Around ₹50–₹55/kg |
| Common market range | Around ₹55–₹70/kg |
| Higher quotations / specific grades or conditions | ₹70+/kg |
| Exact NR Iron Store price | Get a current quotation |
These figures are intended only for preliminary budgeting. Steel prices can change, and supplier quotations may include different combinations of GST, freight, cutting and other charges.
Factors Affecting MS Channel Price
The final price of an MS Channel can depend on several factors.
Steel Market Conditions
Raw material and steel-market movements influence the price of finished steel products.
The Ministry of Steel’s economic reports track movements in iron ore and steel prices, illustrating why steel pricing should be treated as market-sensitive rather than fixed.
Size and Weight
Different channel sections have different weights per metre.
A heavier section therefore requires more steel per metre and can have a different total price per piece.
Grade
The specified steel grade can affect the quotation.
Always compare quotations on the same grade and specification.
Quantity
A bulk requirement may receive different commercial terms from a small order.
Location
A quotation from the mill, stockist or dealer may differ depending on the delivery location and transportation cost.
Freight
Because channels are long and relatively heavy, transportation can affect the delivered cost.
GST and Other Charges
Always confirm whether the quoted price is:
- Basic price
- Ex-GST price
- Including GST
- Ex-yard
- Delivered price
This makes supplier comparisons much more meaningful.
How to Compare Two MS Channel Quotes
Do not compare only the ₹/kg figure.
Use this checklist:
| Factor | Supplier A | Supplier B |
| Channel size | Check | Check |
| Grade | Check | Check |
| Weight/m | Check | Check |
| Length | Check | Check |
| Brand/mill | Check | Check |
| Quantity | Check | Check |
| GST | Check | Check |
| Freight | Check | Check |
| Cutting charges | Check | Check |
| Delivery time | Check | Check |
| Test certificate | If required | If required |
| Final delivered cost | Compare | Compare |
The final delivered cost for the same specification is usually a more useful comparison than the headline price alone.
Buying Tips for Contractors and Fabricators
Before placing an order, confirm the following:
- Exact channel designation
- Required dimensions
- Steel grade
- Quantity
- Required length
- Surface/finish requirement
- Manufacturer or mill preference, if applicable
- Cutting requirement
- Delivery location
- GST treatment
- Freight
- Availability
- Test certificate requirement
Avoid this common mistake
Do not order “200 channel” without confirming exactly what specification you mean.
Ask for the complete requirement, such as:
ISMC 200 + required grade + required quantity + required length
This makes the quotation easier to understand and reduces the possibility of receiving a different section.
Why Buy MS Channel from NR Iron Store?
NR Iron Store is an iron and steel supplier based in Jaipur, Rajasthan, supplying MS Channels along with MS Pipes, MS Bars, MS Angles, MS Flats and sheet products. The company states that it serves both smaller requirements and bulk orders and offers delivery from Jaipur across India.
For contractors, builders, fabricators and retail customers, you can share your exact requirement and request a quotation based on:
- MS Channel size
- Quantity
- Grade
- Required length
- Delivery location
- Cutting requirement
NR Iron Store’s website currently provides a dedicated MS Channel product section and a quote/enquiry option.
Key Takeaways
- MS Channel is a C/U-shaped structural steel section used in construction and fabrication.
- ISMC means Indian Standard Medium Weight Channel.
- Common ISMC sizes range from 75 mm to 400 mm nominal depth in the referenced standard table.
- Channel weight is normally expressed in kg per metre.
- Total estimated weight can be calculated using kg/m × total length.
- MS Channel prices vary with size, grade, quantity, location, freight and market conditions.
- Always compare quotations using the same specification.
- For structural applications, select the section according to engineering requirements rather than price alone.
- NR Iron Store can provide a current quotation based on your exact MS Channel requirement.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is an MS Channel?
An MS Channel is a mild steel structural section with a C- or U-shaped profile. It is used in suitable construction, structural and fabrication applications.
2. What are the common MS Channel sizes available in India?
Common ISMC sizes include ISMC 75, 100, 125, 150, 175, 200, 225, 250, 300, 350 and 400 in the referenced IS 808 medium-weight channel table.
3. What is the weight of ISMC 100?
The referenced IS 808:1989 table lists ISMC 100 at approximately 9.56 kg per metre.
4. What is the weight of ISMC 200?
The referenced table lists ISMC 200 at approximately 22.30 kg per metre.
5. How is MS Channel weight calculated?
Use:
Total Weight = Weight per Metre × Total Length
For example, 60 metres of a 22.30 kg/m channel would have an estimated weight of 1,338 kg.
6. What is the MS Channel price per kg in India?
MS Channel prices vary by section, grade, quantity and location. Recent market references show broad indicative ranges around ₹55–₹80/kg, but the actual quotation should be confirmed before ordering.
7. Which MS Channel is best for construction?
There is no universally “best” channel. The correct section depends on the structural design, load, span, connections, grade and applicable standards.
8. Where can I buy MS Channel in Jaipur?
NR Iron Store in Jaipur supplies MS Channels and other iron and steel products. You can share your required size, quantity and delivery requirement to request a quotation.
Get a Quote
Need MS Channel for construction, fabrication, industrial work or a bulk project?
Share your:
Channel Size + Quantity + Grade + Required Length + Delivery Location
with NR Iron Store and request a current quotation based on your exact requirement.
About the Author
Author: Muhammad Ahmad
Designation: Founder & Steel Operations Lead
Experience: 6+ Years in Steel Distribution & Fabrication Supply
Expertise: Steel products and ms channel information
Author Bio:
Muhammad Ahmad leads operations at NR Iron Store. With hands-on industry experience in steel trading and fabrication supplies, he creates practical guides to help Indian contractors, builders, and fabricators understand material specifications, grades, and quality standards before purchasing.