Cold rolled steel coils conforming to ASTM standards are widely used in the fabrication of building structures due to their high strength, dimensional precision, and clean surface finish. They are suitable for manufacturing components such as wall studs, purlins, roof framing, and cladding support systems in light steel structures and modular buildings.

ASTM cold rolled coils are processed under strict specifications to ensure uniform mechanical properties, making them ideal for construction use where both formability and strength are required.

What Is Cold Rolled Steel?

Cold rolled steel is made by passing hot rolled steel through rollers at room temperature. This process refines the grain structure and improves surface quality and thickness control.

Key Features:

• Higher yield and tensile strength (due to strain hardening)

• Improved dimensional tolerances

• Smoother surface, suitable for finishing

• Available in coil form, slit coil, or cut sheets

ASTM Standards for Cold Rolled Steel

The main ASTM specifications relevant to cold rolled coils used in structural applications include:

ASTM A1008 / A1008M

• Standard specification for cold-rolled, carbon steel, sheet in coils and cut lengths

• Covers commercial steel (CS), drawing steel (DS), structural steel (SS), and high-strength low-alloy (HSLA) grades

ASTM A568 / A568M

• Covers general requirements for flat-rolled carbon steel sheet in coils

ASTM A653 (for galvanized coatings)

• Often used when cold rolled coils are further processed with zinc coating

Common ASTM Grades for Structural Use

Cold Rolled Steel Coil Thickness for Steel Structures

The appropriate thickness of cold rolled coils for structural use depends on the component being fabricated. Below is a breakdown of typical thickness ranges and their application:

Most steel framing components in light steel construction use thicknesses from 0.8 mm to 2.0 mm. For heavier gauge requirements or high wind/snow load areas, thicknesses of 2.5 mm and above may be used.

Advantages of ASTM Cold Rolled Coils in Buildings

1. High Dimensional Accuracy: Ensures consistent fitting and faster installation on site

2. Surface Quality: Smooth surface is ideal for coating, painting, or galvanizing

3. Increased Strength: Cold work hardening increases load-bearing capacity

4. Lightweight Structures: Thinner sections can provide adequate strength, reducing dead load

5. Corrosion Compatibility: Can be galvanized or coated as per ASTM A653 or A755

Typical Products Made from Cold Rolled Coils

• C and U Channels

• Z-purlins

• Hat sections

• Framing studs and tracks

• Window and door reinforcement sections

• Roofing substructure members

These are widely used in prefabricated steel buildings, warehouse roofs, commercial drywall partitions, and high-rise steel framing systems.Price and Availability (as of July 2025)

Prices for ASTM A1008 cold rolled steel coils vary depending on thickness, grade, and quantity. A typical pricing range:

Bulk buyers (over 50 tons) may receive discounts. Domestic and imported supply (from mills like Baosteel, Ansteel, POSCO, US Steel, or ArcelorMittal) are widely available.

Summary

ASTM cold rolled steel coils provide excellent mechanical performance and processing flexibility for steel structure building applications. Their consistent quality, availability in multiple grades and thicknesses, and compatibility with coating systems make them a preferred choice in construction.

Key Takeaways:

• ASTM A1008 is the most commonly used standard

• 0.8 mm to 2.0 mm thickness is typical for structural framing

• Suitable for both coated and uncoated applications

• Widely used in purlins, studs, channels, and building envelope systems