Blechdicken

Blechdicken is a German-language term referring to the thickness of sheet metal (Blech). It denotes the smallest cross-sectional dimension of a metal sheet or plate and is a fundamental parameter in metalworking, design and quality control. Thickness affects mechanical properties, formability, weight, thermal and electrical behavior, and suitability for specific fabrication processes.

Measurement is typically expressed in millimetres or inches and is performed with instruments such as micrometres, calipers, thickness gauges and ultrasonic meters for coated or layered materials. Industry practice follows national and international standards (for example DIN, ISO or ASTM specifications) that define nominal thicknesses, measurement methods and permissible tolerances. Coatings, plating and surface treatments can add to apparent thickness and are often specified separately.

In many countries a gauge or "gauge number" system is also used to describe sheet thickness; these systems are non-linear and vary by material and region, so direct conversion tables are commonly used. Typical sheet metal applications cover a range from thin foils and precision strips to structural sheets several millimetres thick, with common sheet-metal work usually in the sub-millimetre to a few millimetres range.

Designers and manufacturers select Blechdicken to balance strength, manufacturability (cutting, bending, stamping, welding), cost and weight. Clear specification of thickness and associated tolerances is essential for interchangeability, performance and safety in engineering and construction.