RICON DA 40 x 160 VM48 Beam Hanger

The RICON DA 40 x 160 VM48 Beam Hanger is a concealed connector from KNAPP’s pre-engineered RICON DA series, designed for double beam connections and cross joints. It provides a fast, reliable, and visually clean solution for structural timber construction, curtain wall systems, and post-and-beam assemblies.

This double-connection version is ideal where two horizontal mullions meet at the same position on a vertical mullion. The DA system uses connecting nuts embedded in the vertical mullion, allowing two opposing connector plates to be installed without screw interference. Each kit includes four precision-engineered RICON plates, self-tapping screws, stainless locking bars, and VM48 composite nuts for 50 mm mullion thickness. The result is a fully concealed, self-tightening, and repeatable connection that simplifies prefabrication and on-site installation.

Key Features

• Double-connection system for cross joints and mullion intersections

• Pre-engineered design for fast, accurate beam joining

• Concealed dovetail interlock with self-tightening function

• VM48 composite nuts for secure through-bolted anchoring (50 mm mullions)

• Fully adjustable to compensate for construction tolerances

• ETA approved for structural timber applications

• Compatible with hardwoods such as oak, larch, and Accoya

• Fire resistance tested per DIN 4102-2 (R30 ≥ 20 mm, R60 ≥ 40 mm)

• Corrosion-resistant coating for humid and high-moisture environments

• Can be disassembled and reassembled without damage

• Main-to-secondary glulam beam connections

• Timber-glass curtain walls and post-and-beam façades

• Double mullion-to-mullion or cross-joint assemblies

• Commercial and residential mass timber structures

• Pergolas, carports, and architectural wood glazing systems

Product Name: RICON DA 40 x 160 VM48 Beam Hanger
Material: Zinc-coated steel (special finishes available upon request)
Included in Set:

• 4 pcs. RICON 160/40 connector plates

• 4 pcs. RICON SK screws M8×25 mm

• 20 pcs. RICON SK screws 5×80 mm

• 10 pcs. RICON SK screws 5×50 mm

• 4 pcs. RICON SK screws 8×80 mm

• 2 pcs. RICON stainless steel locking bars

• 2 pcs. VM48 composite nuts M8×48 mm (for 50 mm mullion thickness)
  Connector Type: Double concealed dovetail beam hanger with VM48 through-nut system
  Mounting: One set recessed, one surface-mounted
  Advantages: Concealed, corrosion-resistant, self-tightening, and load-bearing connection
  Certifications: ETA approved, Eurocode 5 (EN 1995-1-1)

Steps

1. Prepare the Recess
   Use the KNAPP MULTI-F Routing Jig to create the mortise for each RICON 160/40 connector plate. Ensure alignment between adjoining members.

2. Install the Plates
   Fasten two plates on the beam ends using the supplied 5×80 mm and 8×80 mm screws. Attach the opposing plates on the mullion using M8×25 screws and the VM48 composite nuts.

3. Insert Connecting Nuts
   Drill through-holes in the vertical mullion to accept the M8×48 mm composite nuts. Insert and align them with the installed connector plates.

4. Join the Components
   Slide the beam into position, interlocking the dovetail plates until fully engaged.

5. Secure the Locking Bars
   Insert the stainless locking bars to prevent separation and ensure permanent engagement.

6. Final Check
   Verify that the connection is tight, flush, and properly aligned. The system becomes immediately load-bearing after assembly.

Tips

• Use compatible KNAPP routing jigs for precise fitting

• For exterior or high-humidity projects, request corrosion-resistant coatings

• VM48 nuts are suitable for 50 mm mullions; VM60 or VM80 options available upon request

• The connection can be disassembled and reinstalled multiple times