AISC, EN and GB drawings annotate differently. Reading the symbols halves the misunderstandings.
The most common confusion buyers face with shop drawings is different annotation conventions across code systems. Quick guide to the big three:
AISC (US): sections noted as depth×weight, e.g. W24×94; bolt holes in imperial units — convert carefully during inspection.
EN (Europe): sections by designation, e.g. HEB300, IPE400; weld symbols follow ISO 2553, whose arrow conventions differ from AWS A2.4 — a classic source of misunderstanding.
GB (China): grades like Q355B roughly correspond to S355, but impact-test temperatures differ, so don't equate them directly.
Xionglan export drawings follow the destination country's conventions by default and include a symbol key on the cover sheet. If a drawing from another supplier has you puzzled, send it over — we're happy to help interpret.
Shanghai Xionglan Steel Structure · Exported to 60+ countries · EN 1090 CE certified · Engineer reply within 24 hours
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