FAQ: Specifying Steel for Architects & Consultants

When drafting tender documents and technical specifications, architects and lead consultants must ensure structural steel requirements are precise. Here are common questions regarding steel specifications in India.

1. Should we specify E250 or E350 grade steel?

IS 2062 E250 is the standard mild steel used in general fabrication. However, for large clear spans or heavy-load structures, specifying high-tensile E350 grade steel is recommended. While it carries a slight premium per ton, its higher yield strength often allows for lighter section sizes, resulting in a net cost saving for the client.

2. What is the standard for welding specifications?

For critical structural joints, specifications should mandate that all welders are qualified as per IS 817 or AWS D1.1. Furthermore, specify that primary load-bearing welds (like full-penetration butt welds on built-up sections) undergo 100% Ultrasonic Testing (UT) or Radiographic Testing (RT).

3. How should we specify surface protection for corrosive environments?

Standard synthetic enamel paint is insufficient for coastal or chemical environments. For harsh conditions, architects should specify a surface preparation of SA 2.5 (grit blasting) followed by a high-build epoxy primer and a Polyurethane (PU) topcoat. Alternatively, Hot-Dip Galvanizing (HDG) can be specified for maximum longevity.

4. How do we ensure the PEB vendor's design is safe?

Tender documents should require that all structural designs comply strictly with IS 800:2007 (General Construction in Steel), IS 875 (Wind/Dead/Live Loads), and IS 1893 (Seismic Loads). Additionally, you can request that the design calculations be vetted and stamped by an independent third-party structural auditor (like IIT or NIT).