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Shear Plate Timber Connectors

As of May 2013, we are now providing our exclusive “Portland Bolt” branded shear plates.

The shear plate wood connector is intended primarily for wood-to-steel or wood-to-wood connections in demountable structures when used in pairs. Shear plates spread the load and reduce the number of bolts required.

The shear plates are placed in precut daps created by a dapping tool and are completely embedded in the timber when in position, being flush with the surface of the timber. In some cases where field connections of preassembled sections are to take place, two shear plates used in place of a split ring will enable the members to slide easily into position greatly reducing the labor required for the connection. Shear plates are used to attach columns to footings through steel straps, in connection with steel gusset plates, for transferring loads from steel heel straps in bowstring trusses and for other steel to wood connection in timber structures.

Shear plates are available in two sizes:  2-5/8 inch shear plates are used is lighter timbers while 4 inch shear plates are used in heavy timber construction. The dimensional chart below provides minimum lumber dimensions.