Steel loses strength when heated sufficiently.

The critical temperature of a steel member is the

temperature at which it cannot safely support its load. [16] Building codes and structural engineering
standard practice defines different critical temperatures depending on the structural element type,
configuration, orientation, and loading characteristics. The critical temperature is often considered
the temperature at which its yield stress has been reduced to 60% of the room temperature yield
stress.[17] In order to determine the fire resistance rating of a steel member, accepted calculations
practice can be used,[18] or a fire test can be performed, the critical temperature of which is set by the
standard accepted to the Authority Having Jurisdiction, such as a building code. In Japan, this is
below 400 °C[citation needed]. In China, Europe and North America (e.g., ASTM E-119), this is
approximately 1000–1300 °F[19] (530-810 °C). The time it takes for the steel element that is being
tested to reach the temperature set by the test standard determines the duration of the fire-
resistance rating. Heat transfer to the steel can be slowed by the use of fireproofing materials, thus
limiting steel temperature. Common fireproofing methods for structural steel include intumescent,
endothermic, and plaster coatings as well as drywall, calcium silicate cladding, and mineral wool
insulating blankets.[20]