What’s the difference between mild steel and structural steel?

Mild steel, also known as low-carbon steel, is a versatile material used for a wide range of applications, including brackets, panels, and vehicle parts. It’s affordable, easy to work with, and suitable for fabrication jobs that don’t need heavy load-bearing strength. Structural steel, on the other hand, is engineered specifically for strength and durability under stress. It’s certified to meet strict mechanical and safety standards and used in load-bearing applications like beams, columns, and frameworks in construction and infrastructure projects.

How do I know if a steel product meets Australian standards?

Australian-compliant steel products come with traceability documents and certification that confirm they meet the relevant standards—such as AS/NZS 3678 for structural steel or AS 1397 for sheet and coil. Reputable fabricators will always use certified materials and can provide paperwork if required. If you're unsure, ask your fabricator or supplier to confirm the steel’s grade, source, and compliance. Using certified steel is essential for safety, insurance, and ensuring the finished product passes inspections or council approvals.

Can steel fabrication be done on-site for large projects?

Yes, on-site steel fabrication is common for larger or complex builds where transporting finished components is difficult or impractical. Fabricators may pre-cut and partially assemble items in their workshop, then weld, fit, or finalise installation at the job site. On-site fabrication allows for last-minute adjustments, better alignment with surrounding structures, and can reduce transport risks for large frames or awkward parts. It requires skilled workers, mobile equipment, and proper planning to meet safety and structural requirements.

Welding | Soward Steel & Aluminium Fabrication

What’s the difference between mild steel and structural steel?
Mild steel, also known as low-carbon steel, is a versatile material used for a wide range of applications, including brackets, panels, and vehicle parts. It’s affordable, easy to work with, and suitable for fabrication jobs that don’t need heavy load-bearing strength. Structural steel, on the other hand, is engineered specifically for strength and durability under stress. It’s certified to meet strict mechanical and safety standards and used in load-bearing applications like beams, columns, and frameworks in construction and infrastructure projects.
How do I know if a steel product meets Australian standards?
Australian-compliant steel products come with traceability documents and certification that confirm they meet the relevant standards—such as AS/NZS 3678 for structural steel or AS 1397 for sheet and coil. Reputable fabricators will always use certified materials and can provide paperwork if required. If you're unsure, ask your fabricator or supplier to confirm the steel’s grade, source, and compliance. Using certified steel is essential for safety, insurance, and ensuring the finished product passes inspections or council approvals.
Can steel fabrication be done on-site for large projects?
Yes, on-site steel fabrication is common for larger or complex builds where transporting finished components is difficult or impractical. Fabricators may pre-cut and partially assemble items in their workshop, then weld, fit, or finalise installation at the job site. On-site fabrication allows for last-minute adjustments, better alignment with surrounding structures, and can reduce transport risks for large frames or awkward parts. It requires skilled workers, mobile equipment, and proper planning to meet safety and structural requirements.

We handle all types of steel fabrication and welding in-house, including cutting, forming, stainless and structural work. That means we can manufacture to your specs, match existing frameworks or modify equipment that’s already in place. Whether you’re after a one-off bracket, a site-ready walkway or a fully welded platform, we get it done properly. Our team also fabricates trailers and aluminium for commercial or industrial applications. Reach out today to find out what else we can do for you.