RICON® S 390 – High-performance connector for load-bearing joints
RICON S 390 – High-performance connector for load-bearing joints in engineered timber construction
RICON S 390, with a load capacity of up to 230 kN, is a concealed, high-strength connector – ideal for main-to-secondary beam and beam-to-column joints in multi-storey timber frame and engineered wood construction – as well as industrial prefabrication.
Advanced development of the RICON S series for higher load capacities
Made of hot-dip galvanized steel, this connector is a consistent evolution of the proven RICON S series, designed to enable significantly higher load capacities. For comparison: RICON S models with two welded collar bolts reached load capacities of up to 90 kN.
Depending on the application, the RICON S 390 achieves the following load capacities:
- Up to 195.3 kN for main-to-secondary beam connections,
- Up to 164.8 kN for beam-to-column connections,
- Up to 230 kN for connections between oak components.
It enables reliable connections between:
- Timber to timber (e.g., glulam),
- Timber to steel (using metric bolts, at least hex bolts M10 x 2),
- Timber to concrete (via bonded threaded rods, with the connector fastened using nuts).
Design and variations
The RICON S 390’s high load-bearing capacity is due to its two-part design with a firmly welded connector plate, specifically engineered to absorb compressive forces. The required counterforce is generated through contact pressure from the opposing plate. Additional load reserves are provided by 30° angled screws: unlike conventional screws primarily loaded in shear, these act purely in tension. Their angled positioning and increased length ensure efficient force transmission through the connector while also enhancing the transverse tensile strength of the secondary beam – further expanding the RICON S 390’s application range. The connector is paired with the VS collar bolt type (welded) for maximum load capacity.
The RICON S 390 can be pre-assembled using standard tools. A hanging path of only 35 mm ensures quick and effortless final installation, with the V-shaped design facilitating engagement. Supplied KNAPP SK screws with drill tip and reinforced shank ensure fast, secure fastening. This makes the connector ideal for temporary structures and reusable constructions based on circular design principles. For loads acting opposite to the insertion direction, an optional locking mechanism can be used.
System advantages:
- Timber construction joints
- Suitable for timber widths from 100 mm
- Versatile connection options – to timber, steel or concrete
- Simple screwing without pre-drilling
- Easy engagement thanks to large V-shape – only 3.5 cm insertion path
- Three- and four-sided concealed installation
- High fire protection due to three-/four-sided concealed mounting
- Optional – locking mechanism against insertion direction with safety flap
- Approvals: ETA, UKTA for the UK, ICC for North America
Fire tests have confirmed a minimum of one hour of fire resistance.
If an invisible connection is desired or if special fire protection requirements apply, the RICON® S connector can be installed concealed on three or four sides.
Thanks to the tight joint connection, no additional coverings or fire protection tapes are required.
According to EN 1995-1-2, a 28 mm wood covering is required for 30 minutes of fire resistance (R30). Higher fire resistance (e.g., R60) is also possible.
Fire protection tests are available and can be requested.
The Firestrip Interdens Type 15 fire protection tape for connector protection at R90 fire resistance is available upon request.
Load Table – Characteristic and Design Values
The interactive load table, in Excel format, contains characteristic values and design values according to ETA-10/0189 and can be filtered based on your criteria.
You can quickly and easily perform your own preliminary design calculations, including flexible calculations for angled connections using your preferred screws.
The interactive load table is available for download in the product downloads section.
