What is the critical temperature at which steel trusses start to fail?

Steel trusses begin to experience significant degradation in their structural integrity at elevated temperatures. The critical temperature at which steel loses much of its strength is around 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit. At this temperature, the yield strength of steel can be reduced substantially, making it vulnerable to failure under load.

Steel's ability to carry weight is critically compromised as temperatures rise, which is crucial information for fire service personnel when assessing structural safety during or after a fire incident. Firefighters need to be aware of these temperature thresholds to make informed decisions about whether it is safe to operate beneath or in proximity to a steel-framed structure. Understanding the critical temperature helps in planning tactics and ensures the safety of the firefighters on scene.