C250 and C350 differ in strength, but the higher grade is not automatically the better purchase. Compare mechanical properties, design limits, L0 requirements and pre-shipment documents before placing your order.
AS/NZS 1163 C250 vs C350 is a common decision when sourcing structural hollow sections for Australian and New Zealand projects. The main difference is strength, but grade selection should not stop there. Section geometry, buckling, fabrication, impact requirements and project approval can all affect the correct choice.
This guide helps buyers compare the grades, prepare an RFQ and check documents before shipment.
What Do C250 and C350 Mean?
AS/NZS 1163:2016 covers cold-formed, electric resistance-welded steel hollow sections for structural use. Common forms are CHS, SHS and RHS. “C” identifies a cold-formed grade, while 250 and 350 indicate the nominal minimum yield-strength class in megapascals.
The standard also addresses chemical composition, tensile properties, tolerances, testing, marking and traceability. Grade alone is not a complete purchase specification. See PANDAPIPE’s AS/NZS 1163 hollow section specifications for available grades, dimensions and tolerances.
AS/NZS 1163 C250 vs C350 Mechanical Properties
| Requirement | C250 | C350 |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum yield strength | 250 MPa | 350 MPa |
| Minimum tensile strength | 320 MPa | 430 MPa |
| Specified impact properties | Only for C250L0 | Only for C350L0 |
C350 has a 40% higher minimum yield strength than C250. That does not give a finished member 40% more capacity. Design capacity may instead be controlled by cross-sectional area, wall slenderness, local buckling, member length, connection details or load direction.
Minimum elongation varies with section form and the applicable diameter-to-thickness or width-to-thickness ratio. Compare results with the correct standard table rather than using one value for every size.
Where Are C250 and C350 Used?
Typical C250 Applications
C250 may be specified for light frames, handrails, fencing and fabricated components where its design strength is sufficient. Do not select it only because a quotation is lower.
Typical C350 Applications
C350 is commonly considered for columns, trusses, building frames and more heavily loaded members. Its higher strength may support an efficient design, but only after engineering verification. Never reduce the specified wall thickness simply because C350 is available.
Do You Need C250L0 or C350L0?
The L0 suffix identifies specified Charpy V-notch impact properties at 0°C. It does not mean that an L0 grade should be selected solely from the local weather.
The engineer may consider service temperature, thickness, loading and brittle-fracture risk. If an L0 grade is specified, verify the corresponding impact results. Ordinary C250 or C350 is not an automatic substitute. Read the separate C350L0 impact requirements guide for detailed test values.
How Should Buyers Choose Between C250 and C350?
Start with the drawing and material schedule. Confirm that the required grade, section and size are available. Obtain written engineering approval for any proposed substitution.
A quotation-ready RFQ should state:
- Standard and required edition
- Grade and L0 designation, if applicable
- CHS, SHS or RHS
- Dimensions, wall thickness and length
- Quantity and surface finish
- Test certificate and third-party certification requirements
- Delivery destination and Incoterm
Example:
AS/NZS 1163:2016 C350L0 RHS, 150 × 100 × 6 mm, 12 m fixed length, 50 tonnes, with test certificates and project-required certification.
For a wider document and RFQ checklist, see the AS/NZS 1163 buyer’s guide.
What Should You Verify Before Shipment?
AS/NZS 1163 requires a test and inspection certificate to be available for each production batch. Check the manufacturer, standard, grade, dimensions, heat number, chemical composition, yield strength, tensile strength and elongation.
Match the traceable identifier on the section or bundle to the certificate and packing records. If ACRS certification is required, verify the current certificate’s manufacturer, production location, product type, grade and dimensional scope. PANDAPIPE’s ACRS steel pipe certification page provides related certification information.
Request an AS/NZS 1163 C250 or C350 Quote
PANDAPIPE supplies CHS, SHS and RHS for international B2B construction and engineering projects. We can review your material list, dimensions, grade, documentation and certification requirements before pricing.
For a reliable AS/NZS 1163 C250 vs C350 quotation, send PANDAPIPE your drawing, BOM or RFQ today.
FAQs:
1. What Is the Main Difference Between AS/NZS 1163 C250 and C350?
C250 has a minimum yield strength of 250 MPa and a minimum tensile strength of 320 MPa. C350 increases these values to 350 MPa and 430 MPa respectively.
2. Is C350 40% Stronger Than C250?
C350 has a 40% higher minimum yield strength. However, the finished member’s capacity also depends on its dimensions, wall thickness, length, connections and buckling behaviour.
3. Can C350 Replace C250?
Not automatically. The responsible engineer should provide written approval because changing the grade may affect the approved design, welding procedure and project documentation.
4. Can C250 Replace C350?
No. C250 does not meet the minimum yield or tensile strength specified for C350. Substitution would require an approved structural redesign.
5. What Is the Difference Between C350 and C350L0?
Both belong to the same 350 MPa yield-strength class. C350L0 also has specified Charpy V-notch impact properties at 0°C.
6. Are C250 and C350 Available as CHS, SHS and RHS?
AS/NZS 1163 covers circular, square and rectangular hollow sections. Buyers should confirm the required grade, size and wall-thickness combination before ordering.
7. Are C250 and C350 Suitable for Welding?
Both grades are intended to be weldable. The welding procedure must still consider carbon equivalent, wall thickness, joint restraint, consumables and the applicable welding standard.
8. Which Documents Should Buyers Request?
Request the AS/NZS 1163 test and inspection certificate, chemical and mechanical test results, heat or batch identification, product marking records and any project-required certification.
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