At what temperature do unprotected steel rods and cables typically fail?

Unprotected steel rods and cables typically begin to lose their structural integrity around 800°F. At this temperature, steel can lose as much as 50% of its strength, which significantly affects its ability to support loads. The failure point is critical for fire service personnel to understand since exposure to high temperatures, such as those caused by fire, can lead to catastrophic failure of structural components in a building. This knowledge helps firefighters assess the safety of structural elements and make informed decisions during fire suppression operations. Understanding the melting and weakening points of materials, including steel, is crucial for ensuring effective rescues and minimizing risk during operations.