The Simpson Hidden Timber Connector Kit with Screws ETB160A-SCRB is a concealed beam connection system from Simpson designed for exposed timber framing applications where structural reliability and a clean finished appearance must work together. An interlocking plate system - comprising a lower plate that seats into a routed pocket on the supporting beam and a horseshoe plate that mounts onto the end of the supported beam - locks the two members together without leaving any visible hardware on the finished assembly, making it well suited for architectural timber construction, residential timber frames, and commercial projects where aesthetics and load-tested performance are equally critical.

Key Features

• Fully Concealed Interlocking Plate System - the lower plate recesses into a routed pocket and the horseshoe plate locks onto the beam end, so no connector hardware is visible once installation is complete, preserving the natural look of exposed timber framing.
• Load-Tested Structural Connection - the interlocking plate design is engineered for reliable structural performance, giving builders and specifiers confidence in concealed beam-to-beam joints that must meet structural requirements.
• SCRB Screws Included - the kit ships complete with SCRB structural screws for horseshoe plate installation, eliminating a separate fastener purchase for that component and simplifying procurement.
• Angled Screw Installation - screws are driven at a downward angle of approximately 45 deg., which draws the horseshoe plate firmly into position and contributes to a secure, tight joint without exposed fastener heads on the face of the timber.
• Routed-Pocket Lower Plate Design - the lower plate installs into a 3/8 in. deep routed pocket on the side of the supporting beam, keeping the connector fully recessed and maintaining flush, hardware-free beam surfaces throughout the assembly.

Why This Product

• Appearance and structure in one system - by routing the lower plate into the supporting beam and capping the supported beam end with the horseshoe plate, this connector delivers a fully hidden fastening solution without sacrificing the load-tested structural integrity that architectural timber projects demand.
• Streamlined installation with included fasteners - the SCRB structural screws for the horseshoe plate are packaged with the connector, reducing trips to the fastener aisle and keeping the job moving on exposed timber frame and concealed beam connection projects.
• Versatile application fit - the hidden timber connector is approved for use across concealed beam-to-beam structural connections, supporting beam applications, and both residential and commercial timber framing, making it a practical choice for a wide range of project types.
• Clean finished result for visible framing - because no connector hardware remains exposed after installation, this system is purpose-built for situations where timber beams will be seen - vaulted ceilings, post-and-beam interiors, and other architectural timber assemblies where visible brackets or hangers would detract from the design.

Specifications

• Model Number (MPN): ETB160A-SCRB
• Country of Origin: Denmark

Approved Applications

• Concealed beam-to-beam structural connections in exposed timber framing
• Architectural timber construction where visible hardware is undesirable
• Supporting beam connections requiring a load-tested, hidden fastening solution
• Residential and commercial timber frame projects requiring clean aesthetic finishes

What's Included

• ETB160A lower plate (installs into routed pocket on supporting beam)
• Horseshoe plate (installs onto end of supported beam)
• SCRB structural screws for horseshoe plate installation

Note: 16d hot-dip galvanized nails for lower plate installation are not included in the kit and must be sourced separately.

Installation Overview

• Rout a 3/8" (10 mm) deep pocket into the side of the supporting beam as indicated for the lower plate.
• Install the lower plate with 16d hot-dip galvanized nails (not included in kit).
• Install the horseshoe plate onto the end of the supported beam using the SCRB screws supplied in the kit. Screws are installed at a downward angle (approximately 45 deg.).

Note: Product dimensions and/or screw holes may differ from picture. Please see item description for specifications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the ETB160A-SCRB kit include the screws needed for installation?

Yes, the kit ships complete with SCRB structural screws for the horseshoe plate installation, so no additional fastener purchase is required for that component.

Will any connector hardware be visible once the ETB160A-SCRB is installed?

No. The interlocking plate system conceals all fasteners once installed, leaving no visible connector hardware on the finished assembly - making it well suited for architectural timber applications where appearance matters.

How does the lower plate fit flush within the supporting beam?

The lower plate seats into a 3/8" (10 mm) deep routed pocket cut into the side of the supporting beam, allowing it to sit flush and remain fully concealed after the connection is made.

At what angle are the SCRB screws installed?

The SCRB screws are installed at a downward angle of approximately 45 deg., which is designed for optimized load transfer and pull-through resistance.