AS 1163 C350L0 CHS is a premium cold-formed circular hollow section designed for structural applications under the Australian/New Zealand standard. The C350 grade offers a nominal minimum yield strength of 350 MPa, while the L0 designation ensures impact toughness at 0°C.
AS 1163 C350L0 CHS is designed for structural applications where reliable mechanical performance, dimensional consistency, and suitable impact properties are required. The product is a circular hollow section (CHS) manufactured in accordance with AS/NZS 1163 requirements for cold-formed structural steel hollow sections. Before purchasing or specifying this material, engineers and buyers should understand its grade designation, mechanical properties, manufacturing requirements, dimensions, and quality controls.
Key Features & Requirements
| Feature | Details | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| C350 Steel Grade | Nominal minimum yield strength ~350 MPa (subject to thickness/standard) | Useful load-bearing capacity and structural efficiency—suitability depends on diameter, wall thickness, length, loading, connections, buckling |
| L0 Impact Requirement | Specified impact toughness at defined test temperature | Important for lower temperatures or dynamic loads—confirm impact-test requirements per current standard and project spec |
| Circular Hollow Section Geometry | Symmetrical circular cross-section—hollow interior | Consistent behavior under loads from different directions—resists compression, bending, torsion—reduces material vs. solid sections |
| Manufacturing Requirements | Cold-formed—steel strip/plate formed into circular shape, longitudinal welded seam | Maintains consistent dimensions and weld quality—meets specified mechanical, dimensional, quality requirements |
| Dimensional Accuracy & Tolerances | OD, wall thickness, length, straightness, section geometry | Essential for fabrication and installation—consistent dimensions simplify cutting, fitting, welding, assembly |
| Mechanical & Chemical Requirements | Yield strength, tensile strength, elongation, impact performance—chemical composition affects strength, toughness, weldability | Review together with welding procedures—appropriate chemistry and welding practices for extensive welding |
| Inspection & Quality Documentation | Chemical analysis, tensile/impact testing, dimensional/visual/weld inspection, NDT, surface-quality checks, traceability, MTC | Verify supplied product meets specification—heat numbers and markings traceable to production/test records |
| Structural Applications | Columns, braces, roof trusses, industrial frames, towers, support structures, architectural components | Final selection based on structural calculations and applicable design standards |
Grade Designation Breakdown
| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
| C | Structural steel grade |
| 350 | Nominal minimum yield strength ~350 MPa |
| L0 | Impact toughness requirement at specified test temperature |
| CHS | Circular Hollow Section |
Inspection Checklist
| Item | Check |
|---|---|
| Chemical composition | Per specification |
| Tensile testing | Yield, tensile, elongation |
| Impact testing | L0 requirement |
| Dimensional inspection | OD, wall thickness, length |
| Visual inspection | Surface quality |
| Weld inspection | Weld quality, NDT |
| Traceability | Heat numbers, markings, MTC |
Key Takeaway
AS 1163 C350L0 CHS combines:
- C350 strength – ~350 MPa yield
- L0 impact toughness – low-temperature/dynamic load performance
- Circular geometry – efficient structural behavior
- Controlled manufacturing – consistent quality
- Dimensional consistency – reliable fabrication
- Traceability – documentation and verification
Understanding these factors helps buyers select a reliable product and ensures the CHS meets the technical requirements of the intended structural project.
Applications of AS 1163 C350L0 CHS in the Structural Field
AS 1163 C350L0 Circular Hollow Sections (CHS) are widely considered for structural projects where strength, efficient section geometry, and a clean appearance are important. The circular profile provides consistent properties around the section and can perform effectively under compression, tension, bending, and torsional loads when properly designed.
Applications Overview
| Application | Typical Uses | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Building Columns | Commercial buildings, industrial facilities, warehouses | Efficient compressive load resistance—symmetrical shape for multidirectional loads—consider length, diameter, wall thickness, slenderness, buckling, end conditions, connections |
| Roof Trusses & Space Frames | Long-span structures, roof supports | Strength + reduced structural weight—clean appearance for visible structures—connection design critical (CHS-to-CHS differs from conventional beam-to-column) |
| Structural Bracing | Diagonal bracing, lateral stability systems—frames, towers, industrial structures | Tension or compression depending on configuration—circular section resists loads from different directions |
| Industrial Buildings & Equipment Supports | Equipment platforms, pipe racks, support frames, access structures, maintenance platforms | Strength, dimensions, connection characteristics—smooth external surface minimizes exposed edges/complex profiles |
| Bridges & Infrastructure | Bridge components, supports, trusses, barriers, frames | Requires careful consideration of fatigue, corrosion, dynamic loads, impact, environmental exposure—confirm compliance with relevant design standards |
| Towers & Masts | Communication structures, lighting towers, observation structures, industrial support towers | Symmetrical geometry resists loads from varying directions—consider wind, fatigue, buckling, connections |
| Architectural Structures | Entrance canopies, atriums, pedestrian structures, exposed columns, handrail supports, decorative frames | Smooth circular profile—modern appearance—surface finishing, coating, connection details per aesthetic/environmental requirements |
Key Advantages
| Advantage | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Good structural strength | For appropriately designed members |
| Symmetrical circular geometry | Multidirectional loading |
| Efficient hollow-section design | Reduces unnecessary material |
| Suitable fabrication options | Cutting and welding |
| Clean visual appearance | Exposed structural components |
| Versatility | Building, industrial, infrastructure, architectural projects |
Key Takeaway
AS 1163 C350L0 CHS can serve a wide range of structural purposes, from building columns and roof trusses to bracing, industrial structures, towers, infrastructure, and architectural components.
Suitability must be confirmed through engineering calculations—consider:
- Section diameter and wall thickness
- Member length
- Loading and buckling
- Connections
- Corrosion protection
- Fire requirements
- Applicable standards
Its combination of strength and circular geometry makes it a flexible structural option when correctly specified, fabricated, and installed.
Advantages of C350L0 CHS in Structural Projects
AS 1163 C350L0 Circular Hollow Section (CHS) is a practical structural steel product for projects that require a combination of strength, efficient geometry, durability, and fabrication flexibility. Its circular hollow profile gives it useful structural characteristics that can make it suitable for columns, braces, trusses, towers, industrial frames, and architectural structures.
Key Advantages
| Advantage | Description | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Efficient Strength-to-Weight Ratio | Hollow section provides structural capacity without a solid cross-section | Reduces member weight—simplifies handling, transport, lifting, installation—savings depend on design comparison |
| Good Resistance to Multidirectional Loads | Symmetrical circular geometry—consistent properties around central axis | Resists compression, tension, bending, torsion—attractive for columns, bracing, towers, trusses, varying load directions |
| High Structural Efficiency | Material distributed around perimeter—efficient buckling characteristics for compression members | Depends on diameter, wall thickness, member length—detailed calculations required for slenderness and local stability |
| Clean & Modern Appearance | Smooth, circular external surface | Attractive for exposed columns, entrance structures, canopies, pedestrian bridges, roof systems, architectural frames |
| Fabrication Flexibility | Cut, weld, drill, fabricate into various configurations | Suitable for prefabricated frames, trusses, braces, supports—connections may require more specialized detailing than I-beams/rectangular sections |
| Suitable for Various Applications | Columns, roof trusses, space frames, bracing, industrial supports, towers, bridges, canopies, architectural structures | Depends on structural calculations and project compliance |
| Transportation & Installation Benefits | Efficient section reduces member weight—circular shape simplifies bundling | Lighter members = easier handling/lifting—proper end protection and cargo securing required |
| Consistent Quality & Standardized Requirements | AS/NZS 1163 requirements—material properties, dimensions, manufacturing, testing | Clear basis for quality verification—MTC, dimensional inspection, mechanical testing, traceability |
| Good Choice When Properly Specified | Not to be selected on strength alone | Evaluate buckling, local stability, connections, fatigue, corrosion, fire performance, fabrication, service conditions |
Summary Table
| Advantage Category | Key Benefit |
|---|---|
| Structural efficiency | Strength-to-weight balance |
| Multidirectional load resistance | Symmetrical geometry |
| Fabrication flexibility | Cut, weld, drill |
| Visual appeal | Smooth, modern appearance |
| Consistent quality | AS/NZS 1163 standards |
| Application versatility | Columns, trusses, towers, bridges, architectural |
Key Takeaway
C350L0 CHS offers a strong combination of:
- Structural efficiency – strength-to-weight
- Multidirectional load resistance – symmetrical geometry
- Fabrication flexibility – various configurations
- Visual appeal – clean, modern appearance
- Consistent quality – standardized requirements
- Application versatility – broad structural uses
When the correct diameter, wall thickness, connections, protective measures, and design standards are applied, C350L0 CHS provides an effective solution for modern building and infrastructure structures.
How to Select AS 1163 C350L0 CHS for a Structural Project
Selecting the right AS 1163 C350L0 Circular Hollow Section (CHS) requires more than choosing a steel grade. The correct product must match the structural loads, section dimensions, connection design, environmental conditions, fabrication methods, and applicable standards. A systematic selection process can help engineers and buyers achieve the required structural performance while avoiding unnecessary material costs.
Selection Factors
| Factor | Key Considerations | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Structural Loads | Compression, tension, bending, shear, torsion, wind, seismic, impact, dynamic | Columns: compression + buckling; Bracing/trusses: tension + compression; Towers: wind + cyclic loads—select based on calculations, not largest diameter |
| Diameter & Wall Thickness | OD and wall thickness—strength, stiffness, weight, buckling behavior | Larger diameter improves properties; thicker wall improves local stability—unnecessarily large/thick increases material and fabrication costs |
| C350L0 Grade Requirements | Nominal min yield ~350 MPa (subject to thickness)—L0 impact toughness at specified temperature | Check against structural calculations—review impact requirements for low-temperature or dynamic loading |
| Connection Design | Welding, plates, gussets, bolts, specialized tubular connections | Connections especially important for CHS—geometry/arrangement affects strength and fabrication—consider member and connection together |
| Environmental Conditions | Coastal, industrial, high humidity—corrosion protection; building applications—fire protection | Painting, protective coatings, or hot-dip galvanizing—fire protection per building code—compatible with service environment and maintenance |
| Fabrication & Installation | Cutting, welding, drilling, transport, installation—equipment, member lengths, connection configuration, welding procedures, tolerances, lifting, transport limitations | Review large-diameter/long-length sections early—ensure practical fabrication and installation |
| Quality & Documentation | MTC, chemical/mechanical/impact test results, dimensional/weld/NDT records, heat-number traceability | Product markings must correspond with inspection documents—maintain traceability through fabrication and installation |
| Project & Design Standards | AS/NZS 1163 specifies hollow sections—does not replace structural design standards | Confirm applicable Australian/New Zealand standards, building regulations, project specs, connection requirements |
| Performance vs. Cost | Balance structural capacity, weight, fabrication, durability, availability, transport, total cost | Best section ≠ heaviest or strongest—well-designed selection balances all factors |
Selection Checklist
| Item | Check |
|---|---|
| Structural loads | Compression, bending, dynamic |
| Diameter | OD |
| Wall thickness | Strength and stability |
| Grade | C350L0 |
| Connections | Welding, bolting, plates |
| Environment | Corrosion/fire protection |
| Fabrication | Cutting, welding, transport |
| Documentation | MTC, test records, traceability |
| Standards | AS/NZS 1163 + design codes |
| Cost | Balance performance and budget |
Key Takeaway
Selecting AS 1163 C350L0 CHS should involve a complete evaluation of:
- Loads – structural requirements
- Diameter and wall thickness – capacity and stability
- Grade – strength and impact toughness
- Connections – fabrication and assembly
- Environment – corrosion and fire protection
- Fabrication – practical installation
- Quality documentation – verification and traceability
- Applicable standards – compliance
Considering these factors together ensures the required performance while maintaining practical construction and procurement costs.
Our AS 1163 C350L0 CHS Recommendations and Shipping Services
AS 1163 C350L0 Circular Hollow Section (CHS) is one of several hollow-section options available for structural projects. Engineers may also consider square hollow sections (SHS), rectangular hollow sections (RHS), or hollow sections manufactured to other standards such as EN 10219 or ASTM A500. The best choice depends on structural loading, connection requirements, environmental conditions, fabrication methods, and the applicable project specification.
Comparison Overview
| Section | Shape | Key Feature | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| CHS | Circular | Symmetrical properties around central axis | Columns, braces, towers, trusses, multidirectional loading, clean architectural appearance |
| SHS | Square | Flat surfaces—easier alignment and connections | Structures requiring simple connections and flat surface attachments |
| RHS | Rectangular | Different section depths in two principal directions | Bending primarily along one axis |
| EN 10219 | CHS/SHS/RHS | European standard—cold-formed welded hollow sections | European projects—compare complete specifications, not just nominal strength |
| ASTM A500 | Round/Square/Rectangular | North American standard—cold-formed welded/seamless structural tubing | North American projects—check complete requirements (yield, tensile, composition, impact, dimensions, manufacturing, testing) |
Detailed Comparisons
| Comparison | Key Difference | Selection Factor |
|---|---|---|
| CHS vs. SHS | CHS = circular (symmetrical, multidirectional, smooth appearance); SHS = square (flat surfaces, simpler connections) | CHS for multidirectional loading/appearance; SHS for flat connections/surface attachments |
| CHS vs. RHS | CHS = uniform geometry; RHS = different depths in two principal directions | CHS for columns/bracing (varying load direction); RHS for bending primarily along one axis |
| CHS vs. EN 10219 | Different standards—composition, impact, tolerances, manufacturing, testing may differ | Compare complete material specifications—not just nominal yield strength |
| CHS vs. ASTM A500 | Different standards systems—check yield, tensile, composition, impact, dimensions, manufacturing, testing | Confirm if alternative standard is acceptable per project engineer or specification |
Key Selection Factors
| Factor | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Structural loads and load directions | Determines section shape |
| Compression, tension, bending, torsion | Capacity requirements |
| Member length and buckling | Stability |
| Diameter or section dimensions | Strength and stiffness |
| Wall thickness | Local stability |
| Connection design | Fabrication and assembly |
| Fabrication and welding requirements | Practical construction |
| Corrosion and fire protection | Durability |
| Impact and temperature conditions | L0 impact requirement |
| Applicable design and material standards | Compliance |
Key Takeaway
AS 1163 C350L0 CHS is not universally better than SHS, RHS, EN 10219, or ASTM A500 products.
- C350L0 CHS – attractive when a circular, symmetrical structural member with ~350 MPa yield and 0°C impact properties is required
- SHS – flat surfaces for simple connections
- RHS – directional bending
- EN 10219 / ASTM A500 – alternative standards—compare complete specifications
Final selection should always follow structural calculations and the project’s applicable standards and specifications
Common Considerations When Using C350L0 CHS
AS 1163 C350L0 Circular Hollow Section (CHS) offers useful structural properties and can be applied to columns, braces, trusses, towers, industrial structures, and architectural projects. However, selecting the correct CHS requires more than confirming the steel grade. Engineers and buyers should evaluate structural performance, connections, fabrication, environmental conditions, quality documentation, and project standards before using C350L0 CHS.
Key Considerations
| Consideration | Details | Action Required |
|---|---|---|
| Structural Loads & Member Capacity | Compression, tension, bending, shear, torsion, combined loads—buckling for compression members | Use structural calculations—consider member length, diameter, wall thickness, end conditions, slenderness |
| Diameter & Wall Thickness | Larger diameter = improved properties; thicker wall = local stability + weight + cost | Select section providing required capacity without unnecessary material |
| Connection Design | Circular surface = no flat faces—welding, bolting through components, gusset plates, tubular joints | Consider connection geometry and member selection together—affects load transfer and fabrication |
| Welding & Fabrication | Cutting, fitting, welding, dimensional control—follow suitable procedures | Confirm material properties, welding procedures, joint configuration, inspection requirements |
| Impact & Temperature Requirements | L0 = specified impact properties at 0°C—for low temperatures or dynamic loading | Define required impact testing and acceptance criteria—additional engineering evaluation for conditions outside standard’s requirements |
| Corrosion Protection | Moisture, marine, chemicals, high humidity—protective painting, coatings, hot-dip galvanizing | Control surface preparation and coating thickness—consider corrosion allowance and future maintenance |
| Fire Protection | Steel loses strength at high temperatures—fire-resistant coatings, encasement, other protection | Determine by fire engineering assessment—not assumed from steel grade |
| Quality Inspection & Traceability | MTC, chemical/mechanical/impact test results, dimensional/weld inspection records, heat numbers | Verify supplied product meets AS/NZS 1163—third-party inspection for large/critical projects |
| Transportation & Handling | Large/long sections—dents, scratches, deformation, coating damage | Plan bundling, end protection, lifting equipment, cargo securing, storage—oversized sections require early planning |
| Compliance With Project Standards | AS/NZS 1163 ≠ structural design standards—building regulations, welding, fire, project specs | Verify compliance with all applicable standards and regulations |
Summary Checklist
| Area | Check |
|---|---|
| Structural loads | Compression, bending, dynamic |
| Dimensions | Diameter, wall thickness |
| Connections | Welding, bolting, gussets |
| Welding | Procedures, inspection |
| Impact | L0 requirements |
| Corrosion | Coating, galvanizing |
| Fire | Protection per assessment |
| Quality | MTC, test records |
| Transport | Bundling, protection, lifting |
| Standards | Project and design codes |
Key Takeaway
Successful use of C350L0 CHS requires attention to:
- Structural loads and buckling
- Section dimensions
- Connections and welding
- Impact properties – L0 at 0°C
- Corrosion and fire protection
- Quality control and traceability
- Transportation and handling
- Applicable standards
Careful consideration of these factors ensures C350L0 CHS performs reliably throughout the structure’s intended service life.
Conclusion:
AS 1163 C350L0 Circular Hollow Sections (CHS) offer an optimal balance of structural strength, lightweight efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. With a nominal yield strength of 350 MPa and specified impact toughness, they are ideal for building columns, roof trusses, towers, and exposed architectural frames.
FAQ 1: What is AS 1163 C350L0 CHS used for?
AS 1163 C350L0 CHS is commonly used for structural columns, roof trusses, bracing systems, towers, industrial frames, bridge components, canopies, and architectural structures. Its suitability depends on the project’s structural calculations and design requirements.
FAQ 2: What does C350L0 mean?
C350 refers to the structural steel grade with a nominal minimum yield strength of approximately 350 MPa, subject to the applicable requirements. L0 indicates specified impact-toughness requirements at 0°C.
FAQ 3: What are the advantages of CHS over SHS and RHS?
CHS has a symmetrical circular profile, which can provide consistent properties around its axis and good resistance to loads from different directions. It also offers a smooth appearance, making it useful for both structural and architectural applications.
FAQ 4: Is C350L0 CHS suitable for building columns?
Yes. C350L0 CHS can be used for building columns when the selected diameter, wall thickness, buckling resistance, connections, and material properties meet the project’s structural requirements.
FAQ 5: What should buyers check when purchasing C350L0 CHS?
Buyers should verify AS/NZS 1163 compliance, grade, dimensions, mechanical properties, impact-test requirements, weld quality, inspection records, Mill Test Certificates, and material traceability before accepting the products.
Post time: Sep-07-2026