AS 1163 and AS/NZS 1163 buyers must verify more than grade and dimensions. Learn how to select C350 or C350L0 and check ACRS, CNAS and MTC evidence before approving an order.
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AS 1163, formally referenced as AS/NZS 1163, covers cold-formed structural steel hollow sections used in Australia and New Zealand. Choosing the right dimensions is only one part of the purchase.
Buyers must also confirm the grade, impact requirements, certification scope and material traceability. This guide explains how to compare C350 with C350L0 and how to review ACRS, CNAS and MTC evidence before ordering.
What Does AS/NZS 1163 Cover?
AS/NZS 1163 applies to structural hollow sections suitable for welding. The main product forms are:
- Circular Hollow Sections (CHS)
- Square Hollow Sections (SHS)
- Rectangular Hollow Sections (RHS)
The standard controls material grades, chemical composition, mechanical properties, dimensions, tolerances, testing, marking and product conformity.
These sections are commonly specified for building frames, columns, bridges, warehouses, mining structures and fabricated steel components. However, the application alone does not determine the grade. The engineering drawing and project specification remain the controlling documents.
Each section shape behaves differently under load and during fabrication. See our guide to HSS round, square and rectangular sections before selecting CHS, SHS or RHS for your project.
AS1163 C350 vs C350L0
AS1163 C350 and AS1163 C350L0 both have a specified minimum yield strength of 350 MPa. Their main difference is the impact requirement.
| Grade | Minimum Yield Strength | Impact Requirement | Typical Selection |
|---|---|---|---|
| C350 | 350 MPa | No L0 designation | General structural applications |
| C350L0 | 350 MPa | Specified impact properties at 0°C | Projects requiring verified toughness |
The L0 designation indicates impact properties at 0°C. It is not simply an alternative grade name.
When C350L0 is specified, check that the MTC reports the impact-test temperature and results. C350 should not replace C350L0 without written approval from the responsible engineer or buyer.
Buyers preparing a C350L0 purchase can also review our AS/NZS 1163 C350L0 sourcing guide for RFQ requirements, documentation checks and quotation factors.
How Do ACRS, CNAS and MTC Differ?
These documents support different parts of the compliance process. One cannot automatically replace another.
ACRS Product Certification
ACRS provides independent product certification for defined manufacturers and products. Its published certificates show that the scope can be limited by the manufacturing location, standard, grade, section type and dimensional range.
Therefore, an ACRS logo alone is not evidence of product coverage. Check the certificate holder, factory, product category, grades, dimensions and validity. The ordered material must fall within the certificate’s scope. See the ACRS explanation of hollow-section certification.
ACRS certification is not automatically required for every order. The requirement depends on the project specification, contract and customer approval system.
CNAS Laboratory Accreditation
CNAS accredits laboratories against criteria equivalent to ISO/IEC 17025:2017. This demonstrates competence only for tests included within the laboratory’s accredited scope. CNAS publishes its laboratory accreditation criteria.
A CNAS mark does not validate every result automatically. Buyers should confirm that the scope covers the relevant metallic material, test method and test item, such as chemical analysis, tensile testing or Charpy impact testing.
Material Test Certificate
An MTC should be traceable to the delivered heat or batch. It normally records the standard, grade, dimensions, heat number, chemical composition and mechanical test results.
If EN 10204 Type 3.1 or 3.2 documentation is required, state it separately. These document types come from EN 10204, not AS/NZS 1163. Type 3.2 also requires an agreed independent validation arrangement.
How to Prepare an AS/NZS 1163 RFQ
“AS/NZS 1163 C350L0 pipe” is not a quotation-ready description. A usable RFQ should include:
- Standard and edition
- CHS, SHS or RHS
- C350 or C350L0
- Section dimensions and wall thickness
- Length and quantity
- Surface condition or coating
- ACRS requirement, where applicable
- Required MTC type
- Third-party inspection
- Marking and traceability
- Destination and delivery terms
Before shipment, compare the pipe markings with the MTC. Confirm the same grade, size and heat number. For C350L0, verify the impact-test temperature and results. This creates a traceable connection between the documents and physical steel.
Request AS/NZS 1163 Hollow Sections from UNIACERO
UNIACERO supports international buyers sourcing structural steel pipe and hollow sections. Send us your AS 1163 / AS/NZS 1163 drawings, grade, dimensions, quantity, certification requirements and destination.
We can review the requested product and document scope before quotation. Contact UNIACERO for an AS/NZS 1163 quotation that reflects your project’s technical, inspection and traceability requirements.
FAQs:
1. Are AS 1163 and AS/NZS 1163 the same?
AS 1163 is a common shortened reference. Contracts should state the complete designation and applicable edition.
2. What products does AS/NZS 1163 cover?
It covers cold-formed structural CHS, SHS and RHS for general structural and engineering applications.
3. What is the difference between C350 and C350L0?
Both have a 350 MPa minimum yield-strength designation, but C350L0 includes specified impact properties at 0°C.
4. Can C350 replace C350L0?
Not automatically. Obtain written approval if the project specification requires C350L0.
5. Is ACRS mandatory for every Australian project?
No. Check the project specification, contract and approved-material requirements.
6. Does CNAS accreditation prove the pipe complies?
No. It supports laboratory competence. Product compliance also requires valid results, documents and material traceability.
7. What should an AS/NZS 1163 MTC contain?
Check the grade, dimensions, heat number, chemical results, mechanical properties and required impact-test results.
8. Is an EN 10204 3.1 certificate automatically included?
No. Specify the required inspection document during the inquiry and confirm availability before production.