Simpson HCA Hinge Connector Custom Order Part by Simpson Strong-Tie is an engineered hinge connector built to transfer loads between two beams aligned end-to-end through a combination of bearing plates, side plates, and bolts. Designed for heavy timber framing and structural beam connections, this connector supports vertical loads and can be configured to resist horizontal loads as part of a continuous load path, making it a dependable solution for complex structural assemblies where beam-to-beam load transfer is critical.

Key Features

• End-to-end beam load transfer via bearing plates, side plates, and bolts - delivers a complete structural connection that handles the demands of heavy timber framing without relying on a single component.
• Optional slotted bolt holes for horizontal load resistance - allows the connector to serve as part of a continuous load path, giving engineers flexibility to address both vertical and lateral forces within a single connection.
• Accommodates dapping or notching on the top of the beam - supports traditional timber joinery details so the connector integrates cleanly into notched beam designs without compromising structural integrity.
• Side plates constructed from 7 gauge material - provides the plate thickness needed to handle substantial loads in demanding structural applications.
• Available in heights up to 60 in. - covers a wide range of beam sizes, giving designers the dimensional range to match the connector to the actual framing members on a project.
• Finished in Simpson Strong-Tie gray paint - offers a consistent, professional appearance and baseline corrosion resistance suited to typical structural installation environments.
• Bolt hole tolerances held to a minimum of 1/32 in. and maximum of 1/16 in. larger than bolt diameter per 2015/2018 NDS 12.1.3.2 - ensures precise fit and code-compliant installation, reducing field adjustments and supporting inspection approval.

Why This Product

• Engineered for dual-direction load demands - the ability to resist both vertical loads and, when specified with slotted bolt holes, horizontal loads within a continuous load path means one connector can address multiple structural requirements at a single beam joint.
• Built to fit the actual beam, not the other way around - with configurable width, bearing plate size, and height dimensions, and compatibility with dapped or notched beams, this connector adapts to real-world framing conditions rather than forcing design compromises.
• Dimensionally flexible for large-scale timber framing - heights up to 60 in. and customizable sizing make this hinge connector appropriate for substantial structural members where standard off-the-shelf hardware simply will not fit the application.
• Code-referenced construction details support project documentation - bolt hole tolerances tied directly to 2015/2018 NDS 12.1.3.2 give engineers and inspectors a clear reference point, simplifying plan review and field verification on permitted structural work.

Specifications

• MPN: HCA CUSTOM MADE
• Brand: Simpson Strong-Tie
• Material - Side Plates: 7 gauge
• Material - Top and Bottom Plates: See PT dimensions in Allowable Download table
• Finish: Simpson Strong-Tie gray paint
• Maximum Height: Up to 60" (contact Simpson Strong-Tie for heights greater than 60")
• Bolt Hole Tolerance: Minimum 1/32" and maximum 1/16" larger than bolt diameter (per 2015/2018 NDS 12.1.3.2)

Options

• The Horizontal Load table gives other bolt options

Ordering Information

• Please Contact us for specifications and to place an order
  
• To order, add the width (W) and bearing plate size (PD) designation after the model name. Specify the H dimension.
• For dapped beams, reduce the H dimension by the PT dimension for each dap.
• Specify model no., model size and height H. Ordering Example: HC4C3TA5-6 H = 18".

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of loads can the Simpson HCA Hinge Connector resist?

The HCA Hinge Connector is designed to transfer loads between two beams aligned end-to-end. In addition to supporting vertical loads, it can be specified with additional slotted bolt holes to resist horizontal loads as part of a continuous load path.

Can the HCA Hinge Connector be used with dapped or notched beams?

Yes. The HCA can be ordered to accommodate dapping or notching on the top of the beam. For dapped beams, the H dimension should be reduced by the PT dimension for each dap.

What are the bolt hole size requirements for installation?

Per 2015/2018 NDS 12.1.3.2, bolt holes must be a minimum of 1/32" and a maximum of 1/16" larger than the bolt diameter. Additionally, 3/4"-diameter bolts in slots should be positioned away from the bearing seat to allow for wood shrinkage.

Are there height limitations for the HCA Hinge Connector?

Standard configurations are available for heights up to 60". For heights greater than 60", contact Simpson Strong-Tie directly for assistance with your specific application.

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