Steel Studs

Steel studs are used in structural applications including axial load-bearing and curtain wall framing, as well as in non-structural applications. They are formed by pouring molten steel into slabs that are then reduced into thinner strips, and applying a coating to protect against corrosion through a hot-dip galvanization process. The strips are rolled into coils, which are slit into widths matching the dimensions of the final product. These are then run through a series of dies to form the final shape, and punched with holes at regular intervals to allow for installation of pipes, electrical conduit, and wall bridging. Since no heat is required to form the coils into the final shape, these products are referred to as cold-formed steel. 

The chemical composition of steel affects its yield strength, tensile strength, and elongation. This Common Product covers structural steel C-studs designated as Structural Grade 33 Type H under ASTM A1003, having a yield strength of 33 ksi, a tensile strength of 45 ksi, and 20% elongation in 1/2 in. The weight percent for the coating reported in this Common Product was calculated for 33 mil (20 gauge) steel with the minimum designated (G60) metallic coating. Structural steel coils come in standard thicknesses of 33, 43, 54, 68, 97, and 118 mils. The weight percent for the galvanized coating on the final product will vary based on the thickness of the steel. Manufacturers also commonly offer thicker G90 coatings, which would increase the weight percent of the coating on the final product. Non-structural steel studs, such as drywall studs used as vertical support in wall framing, have a similar composition to those described by this Common Product, but they can be made from thinner steel and only require a minimum of a G40 coating. For details on chromate passivation treatments that can be applied to structural steel studs, see the Chromate Pretreatment for Steel Common Product.

A historical version of this CP is available here: Historical: Steel Studs - 2015.