Bridge support columns generally use LSAW steel pipes, because LSAW steel pipes are slightly inferior to seamless steel pipes but stronger in performance than spiral steel pipes. The price is also cheaper than seamless pipe and more expensive than spiral pipe. LSAW steel pipes can guarantee the project. They are also safe and cost-effective, which is why they are widely used.

　　Before construction, every project selects the steel-pipe material to be used. Materials commonly used for bridge-engineering supports include Q345B, Q345E, Q345D, and Q345qD. The overall properties of these four grades are essentially the same; all are low-alloy carbon steels with corrosion resistance, high tensile strength, high hardness, and good toughness, used mainly for bridge piling. Material selection also depends on terrain and the type of project. Ordinary plains typically use manganese-plate Q345B; coastal areas with stronger winds use Q345E; viaduct projects use Q345qD; and high-speed-rail bridges use Q345D.