The Simpson 3 1/4 Beam Column Cap CCO3 1/4 is an engineered steel column cap built by Simpson to create strong, dependable column-to-beam connections at the top of steel columns and posts. Designed with a legless profile for direct field-welded attachment, this cap features an extended seat that provides additional bearing surface area beyond each side of the column, helping to distribute beam loads effectively and reinforce the overall connection. Whether you are working on structural framing subject to seismic forces or high-wind conditions, this column cap delivers the uplift resistance and bolt-spacing compliance needed to meet demanding structural requirements.

Key Features

• Legless design for field-welded attachment - engineered specifically to weld directly to steel columns, posts, pipe, or other column types, giving installers flexibility across a wide range of structural steel applications without the need for pre-fitted legs.
• Extended seat beyond each side of the column - increases bearing surface area at the beam-to-column interface, distributing loads more evenly and reducing stress concentrations for a more reliable structural connection.
• Uplift load capacity suited for earthquake and wind loading - engineered to handle the lateral and uplift forces common in seismic and high-wind regions, making this cap appropriate for projects with demanding environmental load requirements.
• Bolt spacing meets NDS code requirements - ensures the fastener layout conforms to accepted engineering standards, reducing the risk of code-compliance issues during inspection and simplifying the design process for the engineer of record.
• 7 gauge steel construction - provides the material strength and rigidity expected in heavy structural column cap applications, supporting consistent performance under sustained beam loads.

Why This Product

• Built for steel-to-timber structural connections - the CCO3 1/4 is specifically engineered for top-of-column use on steel posts, making it a purpose-built solution for hybrid framing assemblies where a standard column cap would not be appropriate.
• Field-weld flexibility supports a variety of column types - because the cap can be welded to pipe columns or other non-standard column profiles in addition to conventional steel posts, it accommodates a broader range of project conditions without requiring a different product.
• Domestic manufacturing supports consistent quality standards - this column cap is a product of the United States, reflecting Simpson's commitment to quality control throughout the production process.
• Configurable for non-standard lumber dimensions - custom and rough-cut beam sizes can be accommodated by providing specific dimensions, making this cap a practical choice even when standard lumber sizes are not used in the project.

Specifications

• Model Number: CCO3 1/4
• Beam Width: 3-1/8 in.
• Length: 11 in.
• Height: 6-1/2 in.
• Material Gauge: 7 gauge
• Finish: No Coating
• Country of Origin: United States

Options

• Contact us for Configurable Options and Special orders
• For special, custom or rough-cut lumber sizes, provide dimensions.
• CCO may be ordered for field welding to pipe or other columns. Weld by designer.
• See CCO Column Cap Load Table. See Table
• See CCO Column Product Guide.

Installation

• Use all specified fasteners; see General Notes
• Weld by designer
• Bolt holes shall be a minimum of 1/32" to a maximum of 1/16" larger than the bolt diameter (per 2018 NDS, section 12.1.3.2); bolt holes should be drilled from one side all the way through the beam to maintain hole tolerances
• Contact engineered wood manufacturers for connections that are not through the wide face

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of columns is the CCO3 1/4 designed to attach to?

The CCO3 1/4 is designed for use on top of steel columns and posts. Its legless design allows for field-welded attachment directly to steel columns, and it may also be ordered for field welding to pipe or other column types, with welding performed by the designer.

What beam width does the CCO3 1/4 accommodate?

The CCO3 1/4 accommodates a beam width of 3-1/8 inches. For special, custom, or rough-cut lumber sizes, specific dimensions should be provided when configuring the product.

Does the CCO3 1/4 meet code requirements for bolt spacing?

Yes. The CCO3 1/4 features bolt spacing that meets NDS code requirements. Per the 2018 NDS section 12.1.3.2, bolt holes must be a minimum of 1/32" to a maximum of 1/16" larger than the bolt diameter, and should be drilled from one side all the way through the beam to maintain proper hole tolerances.

Is the CCO3 1/4 suitable for high-wind or seismic applications?

Yes. The CCO3 1/4 features enhanced uplift load capacity specifically increased to meet the demands of earthquake and wind loading conditions, making it appropriate for use in high-wind and seismic environments where elevated uplift performance is required.

Downloads and Resources

• See CCO Column Cap Load Table. See Table
• See CCO Column Product Guide. See SPECS

Note: Product dimensions and/or screw or bolt holes may differ from picture.