The Simpson Strong-Tie SSB3.518-KT Bypass Framing Slide-Clip Strut Connector is a versatile strut connector commonly used at the bottom of a steel beam to accommodate large stand-off conditions in cold-formed steel construction. Engineered with internal embossments and stiffeners for enhanced axial strength, this bypass slide clip delivers reliable bi-directional vertical movement allowance in steel-to-steel connections, curtain wall framing, and lateral solution applications. Backed by more than 50 years of Simpson Strong-Tie experience in product design, testing, and manufacturing, this kit arrives complete with connectors and all required shouldered screws - no additional hardware needed for a full installation.

Key Features

• 1 in. of bi-directional vertical movement - accommodates both upward and downward structural deflection, making it well suited for large stand-off conditions and applications where movement tolerance is critical.
• No lefts and rights required - a single connector orientation works in all positions, reducing on-site confusion and simplifying inventory management for contractors.
• Embossments and stiffeners built into the profile - increase axial strength without adding bulk, giving the connector greater structural performance in demanding cold-formed steel framing applications.
• 16-gauge (54 mil) steel construction - provides a heavy-duty, rigid connection point that holds up under the load demands of structural steel-to-steel and curtain wall framing assemblies.
• G90 zinc galvanized finish - delivers extra corrosion resistance, extending the service life of the connector in environments where moisture exposure is a concern.
• Kit includes connectors and XLSH34B1414 #14 shouldered screws - everything required for a complete installation arrives together, eliminating the need to source compatible fasteners separately.
• Engineer trusted and contractor proven - Simpson Strong-Tie products undergo rigorous design and testing, giving both specifiers and installers confidence in consistent, code-compliant performance.
• Made in the United States - manufactured domestically under Simpson Strong-Tie quality control standards, supporting consistent material and dimensional accuracy across every connector in the kit.

Why This Product

• A complete, ready-to-install kit - the included XLSH34B1414 #14 shouldered screws are specifically matched to the connector, so installers can go straight to work without sourcing separate fasteners or worrying about compatibility.
• Built-in deflection allowance simplifies design - the 1 in. upward and 1 in. downward movement capacity handles structural deflection at the beam bottom without requiring custom detailing or field modifications, saving time for both engineers and crews.
• Symmetrical design eliminates orientation errors - because no left-hand or right-hand versions are needed, installers work faster and reduce the risk of mis-installation, which is especially valuable on large framing projects with repetitive connector placements.
• Structural performance you can specify with confidence - embossments and stiffeners that increase axial strength, combined with more than 50 years of Simpson Strong-Tie engineering and testing, make this connector a dependable choice for cold-formed steel, curtain wall, and lateral framing applications.

Specifications

• Manufacturer Part Number (MPN): SSB3.518-KT
• Brand: Simpson Strong-Tie
• Length: 18 in.
• Height: 3-1/2 in.
• Depth: 1-5/8 in.
• Material Gauge: 16-gauge (54 mil) steel
• Coating / Finish: Zinc Galvanized, G90
• Movement Allowance: 1 in. upward and 1 in. downward
• Quantity: 25 connectors per kit
• Country of Origin: United States

Approved Applications

• Used at the bottom of a steel beam to accommodate large stand-off conditions in cold-formed steel construction.
• Steel-to-steel connections requiring bi-directional vertical movement allowance.
• Curtain wall and lateral solution framing applications where deflection accommodation is required.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the SSB3.518-KT kit?

The kit includes 25 SSB bypass framing slide-clip strut connectors and 83 XLSH34B1414 #14 shouldered screws - everything required for a complete installation with no additional hardware needed.

How much movement does the SSB3.518-KT allow?

The SSB3.518-KT provides 1 in. of both upward and downward movement, making it well suited for applications that require accommodation of structural deflection or large stand-off conditions at the bottom of a steel beam.

What are the dimensions and material specifications of this connector?

Each connector measures 18 in. in length, 3-1/2 in. in height, and 1-5/8 in. in depth. It is made from 16-gauge (54 mil) steel with a G90 zinc galvanized finish for enhanced corrosion resistance.

Does the SSB3.518-KT require separate left-hand and right-hand versions?

No. The SSB3.518-KT features a symmetrical design that eliminates the need for left and right orientations, simplifying installation and reducing sorting time on the job site.