In the presence of saw dust, paper or other organic material, this can result in mold, or other moisture-related problems such as gypsum board deterioration or the attraction of pests, after the wall is enclosed. However, experience with CFSF over several decades has led designers to identify the limitations of these basic shapes and problems associated with them.ДЇor example, if water gets into the bottom track of a framed wall-which can easily occur during construction when the framing is exposed-the water collects in the track. The exact configuration was often left to the contractor and could vary considerably within even one project. Until recently, more substantial members were built up in the field out of these two types of elements, stud and track. The track is sized to accommodate the overall width of studs. In these examples, the 41-mm dimension is referred to as the flange, and the 89-mm or 140- mm dimension as the web, drawing on concepts familiar from hot-rolled steel and similar I-beam type members. A 41-mm by 140-mm steel stud equates to a 1 5/8-inch x 5 1/2-inch or '2-by-6' wood stud. For example, a 41-mm by 89-mm steel stud equates to a 1 5/8 inch by 3 1/2-inch, or '2-by-4' wood stud. Studs are generally made in sizes similar to nominal '2-by' lumber. Tracks are horizontal framing members, such as sill plates and header members, that are designed in a U-shape to receive the studs. They are usually formed in a C-shaped cross-section, with the top and bottom of the C forming the narrow dimensions of the stud, or its flanges. Steel studs, like wood studs, are vertical members. The CFSF system is founded on studs and track. Much is still left to designers and contractors to decide.

As a system, it is affordable fast to construct lightweight non-combustible versatile in the design of acoustics, thermal insulation, and fire resistance not susceptible to rot, mold growth or termite infestation and high in recycled content.ДЄs groundbreaking as the AISI standard is, it does not codify everything. The attraction of CFSF is easy to explain. The latest version-AISI S200-07: North American Standard for Cold-Formed Steel Framing-General Provisions-is now the standard for all of North America. The first design standards for CFSF were published in 1946 by the American Institute of Iron and Steel (AISI). Finally, through less cutting, assembly, screwing and welding, they improve job-site safety.Д¬FSF has become such an accepted part of the landscape that it is hard to imagine commercial or high-rise residential construction without it. They also speed up construction and streamline inspections, saving time and headaches. They simplify detailing and provide a solution that is more likely to be followed properly by the contractor. Standardized, code-approved specialty elements solve many challenges in a manner consistent wit Using advanced roll-forming methods, new framing elements- beyond standard C-shaped studs and U-shaped tracks-became not only possible, but were pre-engineered and pre-approved for specific needs at both the design and construction phases. In any case, there has been considerable variation in the quality of field assemblies.Д®ventually, familiarity bred discontent, and discontent inspired innovation. Contractors didn't always follow those project specific details and may have done it another way. Every special structural element, such as a rough opening, had to be detailed separately by the engineer of record.

From the beginning, steel framers cut and combined steel studs and track to build up other, more complex shapes, much as wood carpenters do, without any real standardization of assemblies or connections. Cold-formed steel framing (CFSF) began as a kind of alternative lumber, but after decades of positive performance it has finally come into its own.

Standard for cold formed steel framing