The Simpson 8-3/4 in. Beam Column Cap with SDS Screws Quick-Install is a heavy-duty structural connector engineered for reliable column-to-beam connections on top of steel columns. Built by Simpson to handle demanding framing applications, this cap features a legless design for field-welded attachment to steel columns and posts, paired with Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws that streamline installation and engage a greater net section area than traditional bolt attachments. The extended seat projects beyond each side of the column to broaden the beam bearing surface, helping to distribute loads efficiently across the connection point.

Key Features

• Legless design for field-welded attachment - allows direct welding to steel columns and posts on-site, giving structural contractors precise control over placement and alignment without pre-drilled legs getting in the way
• Extended seat with additional bearing surface - projects beyond each side of the column to distribute beam loads more evenly, reducing stress concentration at the connection and improving overall structural integrity
• Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws included - these low-profile fasteners replace traditional through bolts, engaging a greater net section area of the column and speeding up beam attachment once the cap is welded in place
• Diamond holes for temporary fastening - allow the cap to be held in position before welding is completed, helping maintain accuracy during the installation process and reducing the chance of misalignment
• Thick 3-gauge material construction - provides the structural mass appropriate for heavy framing connections, giving builders confidence in load-carrying capacity for demanding applications
• No coating finish - makes the cap ready for field-applied treatments or welding procedures without interference from a factory finish, supporting cleaner welds and consistent surface preparation

Why This Product

• Screws included for immediate beam attachment - the Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws come packaged with the cap, so contractors have the correct fasteners on hand from the start, avoiding delays waiting on additional hardware
• Designed specifically for steel column-top connections - the legless, weld-ready format addresses a common heavy structural framing scenario that standard post caps do not accommodate, making this a purpose-built solution for steel column applications
• Faster fastening without sacrificing connection quality - SDS screw installation eliminates the time-consuming process of drilling through-bolt holes while still achieving a secure, load-transferring connection across the beam width
• American-made by a trusted connector brand - produced in the United States by Simpson, this column cap reflects consistent manufacturing standards that structural professionals rely on for code-sensitive framing work

Specifications

• Model Number: CCOQ9-SDS2.5
• Beam Width: 8-3/4 in.
• Length: 11 in.
• Height: 7 in.
• Material Gauge: 3 Gauge
• Finish: No coating
• Fasteners Included: (16) 1/4" x 2-1/2" Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws
• Country of Origin: United States

Approved Applications

• Column-to-beam connections on top of steel columns
• Field-welded attachment to steel columns and posts
• Heavy structural framing connections requiring load distribution across the beam bearing surface
• Applications where a low-profile fastener solution is preferred over standard through bolts

What's Included

• (16) 1/4" x 2-1/2" Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws

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

How is the CCOQ9-SDS2.5 attached to a steel column?

This column cap features a legless design that is intended for field-welded attachment to steel columns and posts. Diamond holes are also included to allow for temporary fastening during the installation process before welding is completed.

What type of fasteners are used to connect the beam to this column cap?

The CCOQ9-SDS2.5 uses Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws rather than traditional through bolts. These screws provide a lower profile than standard through bolts and engage a greater net section area of the column than a bolt attachment would.

What are the key dimensions of this column cap?

This column cap is designed for an 8-3/4 in. beam width, with an overall length of 11 in. and a height of 7 in. It is constructed from 3-gauge material and carries no coating finish.

What is the extended seat on this column cap and why does it matter?

The extended seat is a design feature that projects beyond each side of the column, providing additional bearing surface area. This helps distribute beam loads more efficiently and reinforces the connection, making the cap well-suited for heavy structural framing applications.