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It can be argued that Australians are leading the way in the development and manufacturing of high performing and cost effective cold-formed light gauge steel wall and ceiling systems, and this is no doubt due to the well documented benefits of steel solutions, and how they positively impact the construction process.
Historically, the Australian marketplace, and its manufacturing has been synonymous with high- quality, certified products that are held to the National Construction Code, and relevant Australian Standards, however inferior ceiling and wall steel products are increasingly being imported into the Australian market.
When the stakes are high for compliance, it is important to understand that both the grade of the steel, and the design of the product need to be called into question by all players along the design and construction process.
Given the potential liabilities for all parties involved in the supply and installation of such products, it is important to be sure that the steel has been appropriately tested and is compliant with the NCC and relevant Australian Standards.
It is sometimes difficult to tell with a quick visual inspection whether products are produced with high-quality steel.
In many cases low-cost alternative imports are not subject to the strict regulations we have in Australia, which increases the risk of receiving low quality steel products.
The only way to ensure that the steel is of high quality, is to source products that have been tested to fully comply with specifications and all Australian Standards. For reassurance look for information on characteristics such as coatings and base metal thickness.
The coating is important, as it is the first and last line of defence against corrosion. Galvanized and zinc/aluminium steel coatings are part of the “active” group of coatings, meaning the coating is designed as a sacrificial barrier to prevent corrosion of the steel substrate.
Samples of several imported steel products were sent to an independent laboratory, and we found the zinc coating of the light gauge steel studs was equivalent to Z100.
Unlike the imported steel studs, Rondo’s steel studs have a zinc coating of Z275 (275 grams of zinc per m2) which ensures that the steel has an optimum zinc coating that will continue to sacrifice itself to protect the base metal. It is believed that the more zinc applied to the product, the longer the base steel will be protected.
Sometimes, a manufacturer can reduce the coating thickness but increase the base metal thickness to reduce costs, which makes the product feel stronger, and give the illusion that it is higher in quality than it is. It’s important to obtain comprehensive product specifications to know exactly what is in the product, and its corrosion protection.
A differing design criterion could mean that the imported product may not perform as intended within a wall or ceiling system. As an example, a slight change of the steel composition can affect the softness of the steel, and the ability for an adjustable clip to grip the furring channel in a ceiling application.
If the system doesn’t perform as intended, a wall or ceiling system could potentially collapse and risk the safety of the building occupants. This is especially important when it comes to suspended ceilings, where a ceiling system collapse could lead to a devastating outcome.
When it comes to the design requirements of products such as Steel Stud Systems in Australia, it needs to comply with the NCC Section B, for structural adequacy.
This is achieved using the AS/NZS4600 design code, also referenced within the NCC. Within AS/NZS4600, numerous steel grades are specified including the relevant Australian or New Zealand Standards of acceptance and compliance.
The design code is complex and requires intimate knowledge and experience to interpret and master. It can take years to develop these skills, not to mention the additional codes relating to the imposed actions on the building. Recent failures of building parts have highlighted the need for vigilance in this area, and good design practice starts with understanding the local conditions, products, and compliance requirements.
Review the steel grade and BMT: quality manufactured steel products have a clear marking stating both Grade and BMT. If not, look for this on their labelling, packaging or ask for evidence of the steel’s specifications. At Rondo we're upfront with our customers, so we ink jet the grade and BMT on products and/or packaging. We also publish the details in our Rondo Trade Product Guide.
Use steel grade, zinc coatings and after sales support to compare steel prices. A quality, long-lasting product has a price, but cutting corners has a cost.
Ensure the product is coming from a manufacturer with a good reputation.
Consider any warranty provided and make sure you understand when you will have the benefit of the statutory warranties under the Australian Consumer Law.
Know what has been specified and if a product has been substituted, ensure that its alternative meets the requisite specifications and Australian Standards.
Review the manufacturers quality standard such as our LRQA ISO 9001 quality management certification, which we’ve held since 1993 to demonstrate providing the best products, processes, and service quality.
Visit Rondo for assistance with compliant wall and ceiling products and designs.
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