Researchers test cold-formed steel-framed building for multiple hazards
Technology & EngineeringResearchers ran earthquake tests, then fire tests on a 10-story building at the UC San Diego shake table. These tests focused on a building made of cold-formed steel, or CFS — a lightweight material made from 60% to 70% recycled steel. Currently, building codes that protect residents’ safety in the United States limit this type of building to 65 feet tall, or six stories, in areas with moderate to high seismic risk. Researchers are asking whether the limit could be increased to 100 feet or 10 stories. And so far, test results point to yes.
