Why AS4100 Compliance Matters in Structural Steel Design – And What Happens If You Get It Wrong

Written By David Finlay

In the world of mechanical and structural design, AS4100 is one of those standards that people mention often — but few fully understand. At Trang Imagineering, we regularly see designs cross our desk that look great in CAD, but completely miss the mark when it comes to structural compliance.

Here’s why AS4100 compliance isn’t just a box to tick — and why ignoring it can cost you big.

What Is AS4100?

AS4100 is the Australian Standard for Steel Structures, and it governs the design of welded, bolted, and cold-formed steel used in everything from equipment platforms to tank supports and machinery skids.

If your project involves steel frames, supports, gantries, or any kind of structural steelwork, AS4100 likely applies — especially if you're working in mining, agriculture, or industrial plant environments.

What Goes Wrong Without It?

We’ve seen plenty of examples where non-compliant designs lead to:

  • Failed inspections

  • Costly rework during fabrication

  • Delays during site installation

  • Non-certifiable components requiring redesign under pressure

The most common problems? Undersized members, poorly considered load paths, and lack of consideration for fixings, fatigue, or bracing.

How Trang Can Help

At Trang Imagineering, we don’t just design to code — we design to real-world conditions. We understand how plant is installed, operated, and maintained. That means when we certify something under AS4100, you know it’s going to pass — in both theory and on-site.

We regularly provide:

  • Structural verification reports for welded frames and skids

  • FEA analysis to assess stress, deflection, and fatigue

  • Design and sign-off of access platforms, stairways, and guarding

  • Retrofit support for structures needing AS4100 upgrades

Who Needs This?

  • Contractors delivering plant mods or shutdown work

  • Fabricators building structural elements for OEMs or mine sites

  • Maintenance engineers managing ageing infrastructure

  • Ag manufacturers needing compliant skid and frame designs

If you're quoting or fabricating a job and the word “certification” gets mentioned — AS4100 probably applies.

Let’s Get It Right the First Time

We’re based in Orange NSW, but work with clients across regional Australia. Whether you need a design from scratch or someone to check over what’s already been drawn, Trang Imagineering is here to make sure it’s compliant, certifiable, and ready to build.

Need help with AS4100 structural certification?
Get in touch with Trang today — and let’s get it right before it hits the workshop.

David Finlay
Next

API650