The Simpson 7X Beam Column Cap with SDS Screws is a heavy-duty structural connector engineered for column-to-beam connections on top of steel columns. Built from 3-gauge steel with a no-leg design, this column cap attaches to steel columns and posts via field welding, delivering a clean and secure fit at the column top. The extended seat distributes beam loads across a broader bearing surface beyond each side of the column, and Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws engage a greater net section area than traditional through-bolt solutions, simplifying the installation process for demanding structural applications.

Key Features

• 3-gauge steel construction - provides the heavy-duty strength needed for reliable structural beam-to-column connections in demanding load conditions
• No-leg design - enables field-welded attachment directly to steel columns and posts, allowing for a low-profile and precise fit at the column top
• Extended seat beyond each side of the column - distributes beam loads across a wider bearing surface, reducing point loading and improving structural performance at the connection
• Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws - engage a greater net section area of the column compared to standard through bolts, streamlining installation without sacrificing connection integrity
• Diamond holes for temporary fastening - make it easier to hold the cap in position during placement, improving accuracy and efficiency on the job site
• Made in the United States - supports quality assurance for structural hardware used in code-compliant construction projects

Why This Product

• Simplified fastening for steel column applications - the SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screw system replaces conventional through-bolt methods, reducing hardware complexity and labor time when connecting beams to steel column tops
• Field-weld flexibility - the no-leg profile is specifically designed to weld directly onto steel columns and posts, making this cap well-suited for structural steel framing where a bolt-down option is not practical
• Broad load distribution - the seat extends beyond the column edges on both sides, spreading beam loads across a larger bearing area and supporting the structural demands of heavy beam-to-column interfaces
• Domestic production from Simpson - this column cap comes from a recognized structural hardware brand and is produced in the United States, offering builders confidence in material consistency and quality for critical structural connections

Specifications

• Model Number: CCOQ7-SDS2.5
• Beam Width: 6 3/4 in.
• Length: 11 in.
• Height: 7 in.
• Material: 3 Gauge Steel
• Finish: No Coating
• Fastener Type: Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector Screws
• Fastener Size: 1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in.
• Country of Origin: United States

Approved Applications

• Column-to-beam connections on top of steel columns
• Field-welded attachment to steel columns and posts
• Applications requiring load distribution across an extended bearing surface at the column-beam interface
• Structural connections where a lower-profile fastener solution is preferred over standard through bolts

What's Included

• (16) 1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in. Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector Screws

Installation

Fasten with the included (16) 1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in. Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws. Use diamond holes for temporary fastening during positioning. The no-leg design allows for field-welded attachment to steel columns and posts. Refer to the CCOQ Specs and Load Tables for complete installation guidance and load values.

Options

• For end conditions, see ECCOQ.
• For rough-cut lumber sizes, provide dimensions.
• Other custom column caps are available. Contact us for Configurable Options and Special orders.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of columns is the CCOQ7-SDS2.5 designed to attach to?

The CCOQ7-SDS2.5 is designed for field-welded attachment directly to steel columns and posts. Its no-leg design enables a clean, secure fit when welded to steel column tops.

Why does the CCOQ7-SDS2.5 use SDS screws instead of traditional bolts?

The Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws engage a greater net section area of the column compared to standard bolt attachments. They also provide a lower profile than standard through bolts, resulting in a cleaner and more streamlined installation process.

What gauge steel is used in the construction of this column cap?

The CCOQ7-SDS2.5 is constructed from 3-gauge steel, providing heavy-duty structural performance suited for demanding load applications.

What is the purpose of the extended seat on this column cap?

The seat of the CCOQ7-SDS2.5 extends beyond each side of the column to distribute beam loads more effectively across a broader bearing surface, providing additional support at the connection point.