Low Temperatures and Structural Steel

[JEI]

I am trying to locate usable information regarding the correct steel to specify for a freezer building where temperatures can range from 36 degrees F to -40 degrees F. I have a client that encloses the steel structure inside the thermal envelope thus subjecting the steel to freezing temperatures. Their drawings use only simple connections and rod bracing. Any direction, guidance, or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

 

[beamer]

In the freezer projects we have done, we have used standard ASTM A572, Grade 50 and ASTM A36 steel. The initial temperature change should be taken into account when looking at connections, camber, etc. There is also movements due to the larger temperature difference in the steel and the exterior finish and the steel and roof during the initial cool down process. Expansion joints become more important.