Why Australian Builders Trust Grade 250 Mild Steel

If you’re a builder, fabricator, or keen DIYer, chances are you’ve heard of Grade 250 mild steel. Used in the construction of bridges, steel tanks, high-rise buildings and general fabrication, it is one of the most common steel types used in Australia, and for good reason. Builders love it, engineers rely on it, and suppliers like Edcon Steel keep plenty of it in stock.

But what makes Grade 250 mild steel so popular? And is it the right choice for your next project? In this article, we’ll unpack why many Aussie builders trust Grade 250.

What Is Grade 250 Mild Steel?

Let’s break down the product name for a bit more clarity.

Mild steel refers to steel with a low carbon content that is tough enough for structural work but not so hard that it’s difficult to cut, bend, or weld. It sits in a sweet spot between strength and workability.

With low levels of carbon and other alloying elements, mild steel has several distinct characteristics that make it a great choice for a range of applications.

Grade 250 refers to its strength (or its minimum yield strength), which is 250 megapascals (MPa). That means that Grade 250 mild steel can withstand a force of 250 million pascals (units of pressure) before it permanently deforms.

Strong but workable

For most residential and light commercial builds, Grade 250 is more than strong enough for the job. It provides excellent support and structure while keeping weight and cost under control. You probably don’t need a higher grade unless you’re dealing with heavy industrial loads or long-span infrastructure.

While it is strong enough for most builds, it is also easy to cut, weld, and fabricate. Softer and more malleable than other steel types, it maintains better ductility in colder temperatures compared with higher-strength carbon steels. This ductility in low temperatures reduces the chances of the steel cracking or fracturing.

Mild steel’s composition also makes it machinable, which is why it is often used for welded fabrications and precision components. You can drill holes, weld joins, and grind edges without stressing the material.

How It Compares to Grade 350

Grade 350 is another common type of steel. It is stronger (350 MPa yield strength) than grade 250 and is often used in heavy-duty structural or load-bearing applications.

While Grade 350 is the stronger of the two, Grade 250 is easier to cut and weld, easier on the budget, and easier to use for general construction.

So, if you’re working on a large commercial job or bridge deck, you might lean toward Grade 350. But if you’re building a house frame or pergola, retaining wall or DIY workbench, chances are Grade 250 will do the job.

Locally Compliant Steel

All Grade 250 mild steel sold at Edcon is manufactured to Australian Standards, so you know it’s made for local building codes and environmental conditions. That means it’s consistently high quality, compatible with engineering specifications, safe and certified.

But is it durable enough for the Australian outdoors? Yes! As long as it has the proper surface treatment.

Like all mild steels, Grade 250 isn’t naturally corrosion-resistant. But thankfully, galvanising, painting, or powder coating offers corrosion resistance. So if your project is exposed to the elements, just make sure the finish matches the environment.

Buy steel beams online from Edcon Steel

Buying from Edcon Steel ensures you get quality products and fabrication support tailored to your project. From mild steel sheet and plate to cut-to-size structural steel beams, Edcon makes your job easier.

You can visit our stores to browse the range or pick up an online order. Our staff are on hand to answer any questions you have about our full range of products and services, so feel free to contact us for your steel or metal solution today.