The Simpson Strong-Tie ECCO68 is an end column cap engineered to deliver strong, reliable column-beam connections in end-of-beam applications on top of steel members. Designed with legs omitted, this heavy-duty 3-gauge steel column cap is intended for field-welded attachment to steel columns and beams, making it ideal for structural applications where a clean, weld-ready connection is required. The seat of the column cap provides additional surface area for bearing that extends beyond one side of the column, helping to distribute load from the beam and provide robust support for the connection. Finished in Simpson Strong-Tie Gray paint, the ECCO68 is built to perform in demanding structural environments.

Key Features

• Legs Omitted Design: Enables field-welded attachment directly to steel columns and beams for a clean, strong connection.
• Extended Bearing Seat: The seat extends beyond one side of the column to distribute beam load and provide enhanced bearing support.
• Uplift Load Capacity: Uplift loads increased to accommodate earthquake or wind loading requirements.
• NDS-Compliant Bolt Spacing: Bolt spacing meets NDS code requirements to ensure optimal structural performance.
• Diamond Holes: Included to provide temporary fastening during installation.
• Heavy-Gauge Steel Construction: Fabricated from 3-gauge steel for superior strength and durability.
• Simpson Strong-Tie Gray Paint Finish: Provides a consistent, professional appearance and surface protection.
• Made in the United States: Domestically manufactured to stringent quality standards.

Specifications

• Model Number: ECCO68
• Beam Width (in.): 5-1/4, 5-1/2
• Dimension W1 (in.): 5-1/2
• Dimension L (in.): 9-1/2
• Material: 3-Gauge Steel
• Finish: Simpson Strong-Tie Gray Paint
• Column Cap Type: End Column Cap (Legs Omitted)
• Attachment Method: Field Welded
• Country of Origin: United States

Approved Applications

• End-of-beam column-to-beam connections on top of steel members
• Field-welded connections to steel columns and beams
• Structural framing applications requiring enhanced uplift resistance for seismic or wind loading
• Connections to pipe or other columns (weld by designer)
• Applications requiring load distribution beyond one side of the column via an extended bearing seat

Installation Notes

• Use all specified fasteners.
• 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 full beam.

Options

• Contact us for Configurable Options and Special orders
• For special, custom, or rough-cut lumber sizes, provide dimensions.
• ECCO may be ordered for field welding to pipe or other columns. Weld by designer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the ECCO68 different from a standard column cap?

The ECCO68 features a legs-omitted design, which means it is intended for field-welded attachment to steel columns and beams rather than relying on integrated legs for fastening. This makes it especially suitable for end-of-beam applications on top of steel members.

What beam widths are compatible with the ECCO68?

The ECCO68 is compatible with beam widths of 5-1/4 inches and 5-1/2 inches, with a W1 dimension of 5-1/2 inches and a length dimension of 9-1/2 inches.

Does the ECCO68 provide resistance against uplift forces from wind or seismic events?

Yes. The ECCO68 features uplift loads increased to accommodate earthquake or wind