SENSE 600\u00ae<\/a> reinforcing steel has been used in the deflection walls of the new road bridges, supporting the removal of two major level crossings.<\/p>\n\n\n\nManufactured in Australia from recycled scrap, SENSE 600\u00ae is designed to deliver the same performance as standard reinforcing, while using less material.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
That means up to 16.7% less steel is required, helping reduce the overall embodied carbon of the structure without compromising strength or safety.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This project shows what is possible when design, engineering and materials work together to deliver better outcomes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
By using higher strength reinforcing, the project team has been able to reduce the total volume of steel required across key elements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Level Crossing Removal Project Environment and Sustainability Advisor Ashleigh Smith highlighted the impact:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cSENSE 600\u00ae is innovative because it’s made from scrap metal, so it’s a part of that closed loop, circular economy, and it\u2019s stronger and lighter than its traditional steel counterparts, which means that there’s actually going to be less steel in the overall product.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
So, when we’re installing the SENSE 600\u00ae in the deflection wall, we can actually use less of it, which means that there’s less embodied carbon in the structure.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
SENSE 600\u00ae is produced using Australia\u2019s only Electric Arc Furnace, where scrap is melted and remade into new steel, supporting a circular model that keeps materials in use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In one example at Hopkins Road, a design change removed around 20 tonnes of CO\u2082 from the project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Projects like this demonstrate the role Australian steel can play in delivering infrastructure more efficiently, with lower embodied carbon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You can also watch the Victorian Government video below to see how the project is being delivered and the role materials innovation is playing on site.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The new road bridges are expected to open in May 2026, improving safety, reducing congestion and supporting growing communities in Melbourne\u2019s west.<\/p>\n\n\n\n