Load-bearing, cold-formed steel framing members must comply with which standards?

Load-bearing, cold-formed steel framing members are essential components in construction, designed to support structural loads while adhering to specific performance and material standards. The correct answer points to ASTM A 653 and ASTM A 792.

ASTM A 653 covers steel sheet, zinc-coated (galvanized) or zinc-iron alloy-coated, which is particularly relevant for cold-formed steel framing since these members often require corrosion resistance for durability and longevity. This standard ensures that the materials used are adequately protected, making them suitable for a variety of environmental conditions.

ASTM A 792 pertains to steel sheet, aluminum-zinc alloy-coated, which is another specification that is critical for cold-formed framing applications. It provides guidelines for the coating process and the mechanical properties of the steel, ensuring that the material can withstand the various stresses it may encounter in a structural application.

Together, these standards ensure that cold-formed steel framing members retain their integrity, support loads effectively, and resist environmental factors that could lead to deterioration. This combination of standards reflects industry best practices for ensuring the safety, reliability, and performance of load-bearing framing systems in construction.