HBS PLATE:
a new generation of screws for plates
In timber-to-steel joints, all screws – regardless of the manufacturer – are exposed to premature failure.
That's the reality. And we've decided to face it head-on.
HBS PLATE is the new Rothoblaas screw designed specifically for timber-to-steel joints in Mass Timber construction. It features a dedicated underhead geometry, an optimised thread and installation tools that reduce risk to an absolute minimum.
We're shining a spotlight on this issue to provide everything necessary to avoid it: product, method and tools.
THE PROBLEM: the stiffest point in Mass Timber construction is also the most vulnerable.
It is here that localised stress, differential deformation and potential failures tend to concentrate.
Anyone designing these connections needs to handle the structural calculations, but also carefully consider all the other factors involved – often not covered by standards – to ensure their proper performance.
Differences in stiffness and behaviour under load, timber swelling, atmospheric corrosion, timber corrosiveness and galvanic corrosion, risks of hydrogen embrittlement, overtorque and incorrect installation angles: these are not just hypothetical scenarios.
They are the real causes which, when combined, lead to premature connection failure on many building sites.
A screw dedicated to timber-to-steel joints: the HBS PLATE range
HBS PLATE is the first Rothoblaas screw designed specifically for metal plates in Mass Timber systems.
The enlarged, tapered shape of the underhead ensures stable seating within the plate, while the newly developed fine-pitched thread increases shear and tensile strength without overloading the bearing surface.
Three materials, all corrosion-proof, for all service classes:
HBS PLATE range offers three solutions designed to ensure durability and protection under any exposure condition. From zinc-plated steel for dry environments, to the EVO Coating, AC257-approved and RISE-tested for C4 environments, up to A4 stainless steel for the most aggressive exposures.
A screw on its own isn't enough: installation and risk conditions
Any screw designed for plates remains vulnerable to failure.
None are immune, not even ours. Installation conditions are key. Rather than hide behind gaps in the standards, we provide the tools to counter the main risks.
Like the TORQUE LIMITER, which eliminates the danger of overtorque during installation.
Why choose HBS PLATE & Rothoblaas: because HBS PLATE is different.
Active transparency
We say what others don't. We provide the product, certifications, method and tools.
Designed for Mass Timber
Underhead geometry, enlarged head and optimised thread developed for stiff, thick plates.
Certifications
Certified to European CE standard ETA-11/0030, US standard ESR-4546 and Canadian standard ELC-4546, in accordance with AC233 by ICC-ES.
Compliance
With the latest standards, including CSA O86:2024, requiring guaranteed core hardness below 390 HV per batch.
Mass Timber fasteners perform at their best when matched with the right tools.
The HBS PLATE system reaches its full potential only when combined with its dedicated resources:
HBS PLATE & RELATED PRODUCTS
The rapid evolution of the design world demands solutions that keep pace with changing needs. Here are ours:
FAQ
WHAT MAKES HBS PLATE DIFFERENT FROM STANDARD SCREWS FOR STEEL-TO-TIMBER CONNECTIONS?
The HBS PLATE stands out for its refined geometry and controlled performance. Every transition along the screw is smooth, reducing stress concentration and ensuring consistent driving torque. The slightly slower thread pitch allows for greater control during installation — particularly in the final stage, when the screw approaches the steel plate, which is the most critical moment.
WHY DOESN’T HBS PLATE HAVE A HEXAGONAL HEAD?
HOW CAN I VERIFY THAT HBS PLATE IS THE RIGHT SOLUTION FOR MY PROJECT?
Designers and builders can rely on comprehensive technical documentation, including design values, connection details, and software integration for structural calculations. Our engineering support team is also available to assist in selecting the optimal configuration for each application.