Metal construction or steel construction – what is the difference?

When using the terms Metal construction and Steel Construction Confusions always arise. Most people outside the industry won't be able to tell the difference anyway.

There are also regional differences because the terms in Germany, Austria and Switzerland each have different origins.

Different industries use the term steel construction differently.

How to differentiate between steel construction and metal construction in the construction industry

In the construction industry, the view has become established that Steel construction, especially supporting structures includes. Metal construction, on the other hand, refers to components that have little or no load-bearing function. This can be best illustrated using a steel commercial hall:

The steelworker supplies the basic framework for the hall. This usually consists of heavy steel beams.

Facade panels, gates, windows and stairs are now mounted on this basic structure by metal workers.

Stricter guidelines for steel fabricators

Steel builders who build supporting structures must comply with the in 1090 be certified. Depending on the certification, different supporting structures can be built. Metal workers who do not build structures do not need this certification.

Can a metalworker build stairs and railings without EN1090 certification?

The situation with stairs and railings is somewhat unclear. EN1090 certification is required for stairs and railings in the following cases:

• If the components contribute to the stability of the building
• If it is an independent structure
• If there are escape routes in the event of a fire

See also: https://www.metallbau-magazin.de/artikel/mb_Nach_vier_Jahren_EN_1090_3372437.html

There was recently a revision to the certification for stairs and railings. We assume no liability for the information. Please inquire with the responsible chamber or guild.

Steel construction for mechanical engineering

Mechanical engineers generally understand steel construction to mean welded components made of structural steel, although these are significantly more detailed than in the construction industry. The term is used on the one hand for supporting structures such as platforms and maintenance platforms, but colloquially it also includes heavy machine parts, housings or frames. A significant difference to steel construction in construction is the significantly more precise dimensional tolerances.

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Last revised on December 9, 2022 by Andreas Janisch