Australian Steel vs. Chinese Steel: Ensuring Quality for Your Project
IN BRIEF
Choosing the right materials for your commercial shed or warehouse project is essential, as steel is a significant component of any industrial or commercial steel construction service. Although Australian steel prices fluctuate, it may be tempting to opt for cheaper Chinese steel, but your project deserves the best.
Chinese steel is often inferior in quality, can result in welds cracking, and may not meet the high standards of Australian-made steel. Here, we list our top 3 Australian steel suppliers in North East Victoria: Steelforce, InfraBuild, and Surdex.
What are the Risks of Buying Steel from China?
While the lower cost of Chinese steel can be appealing, these upfront savings may lead to hidden costs later on. Issues like gradual corrosion or, worse, sudden catastrophic failures can arise, resulting in costly repairs or replacements for your steel structure. Choosing a reliable steel source is essential for projects like commercial sheds or industrial facilities where safety and longevity are paramount.
Why is Chinese Steel Often Poor Quality?
Cracking Welds Due to Boron-Infused Steel
In 2014, reports showed that Chinese manufacturers were adding boron to steel to claim import tax rebates. While boron can enhance steel hardness, the minimal amounts used by some manufacturers didn’t strengthen the steel; instead, it became classified as a special alloy eligible for rebates. Unfortunately, boron is known to cause welds to crack, posing safety risks.
An Australian Department of Industry report highlighted that boron can impact steel weldability, requiring stricter welding procedures to prevent cracking. Using boron-infused steel can compromise the safety of a shade structure or any other commercial steel construction, making Australian steel a more reliable choice.
"If a welder is unaware their steel contains boron, or the amount is unknown or unregulated, they are unlikely to choose the correct welding approach to overcome this issue and the welds may not be as strong and reliable," says Shane
- Shane Barker, Pre-Construction Manager
Standards and Quality Variability
According to the Department, even when Chinese steel claims to meet Australian standards, the quality often falls short. While international steel standards may be comparable, they rarely align precisely with Australia’s AS/NZS standards, as even small differences in steel composition and mechanical properties exist. Imported Chinese steel may appear compliant but typically lacks the purity and quality of Australian steel. In contrast, Australian-made steel, used in structures like warehouses and commercial sheds, provides consistent strength and safety.
The Importance of Australian Steel Standards
Australian standards ensure high-quality and consistent steel performance across a range of applications, including commercial and industrial buildings. Below are some critical standards for structural steel design:
- AS 4100: Structural steel design
- AS/NZS 4600: Cold-formed steel structures
- AS/NZS 5100.6: Steel bridge design
- AS/NZS 2327: Composite steel and concrete design
Material standards, such as AS/NZS 1163, AS/NZS 1397, AS/NZS 3678, and AS/NZS 3679, define specific chemical compositions, mechanical properties, tolerances, and manufacturing practices based on Australian steel. These rigorous standards help ensure the longevity and durability of your warehouse project or commercial shed.
"Whilst the price of steel might be a little higher at the outset, when you choose Australian steel and other locally made products you’re supporting the economy, keeping jobs in Australia, and getting a rugged steel structure that is sure to stand the test of time," says Shane
- Shane Barker, Steelcorp
Where to Source Quality Australian Steel
Steelforce offers top-quality Australian steel products with consistency and competitive prices. Their fully compliant products are backed by excellent service, ideal for shade structures, warehouse projects, and commercial sheds.
InfraBuild uses an advanced traceability system to guarantee steel quality from production to delivery, making it a reliable choice for commercial and industrial construction.
Based in Victoria, Surdex supplies Australian steel products nationwide through partnerships with renowned Australian mills, including Bluescope, Lysaght, and others, ensuring durability and compliance for various projects.
Steelcorp: Australian Steel Construction Experts
When you choose Steelcorp, you’re investing in Australian-made steel construction services that prioritise quality and longevity. While upfront costs may be slightly higher, your steel structure will offer durability and reliability.
Reach out to the Steelcorp team to learn more about high-quality Australian steel structures for your next commercial project.
