A nonius hanger is a two-part suspension component that lets you hang a suspended ceiling at almost any height below the floor or roof above. It consists of an upper part fixed to the structure, a lower part that clips onto the ceiling channel, and a nonius clip (a sprung pin) that locks the two together at the chosen height.
Why use one?
The simple direct hanger — a perforated strap — only works for small drops of a few centimetres. As soon as you need more space for ducts, services or a large step in ceiling level, it runs out. The nonius hanger bridges large drops and stays adjustable while you set it.
Components
| Part | Function |
|---|---|
| Upper part | Vertical strap fixed to the concrete soffit, timber joist or steel beam |
| Lower part | Bracket that clips onto the ceiling channel (usually CD 60/27) |
| Nonius clip | Sprung pin that locks upper and lower parts after adjustment |
| Extension | Optional extra upper part for very large drops |
Installation steps
- Fix the upper parts — set out the grid according to the manufacturer’s system data and fix the upper parts to the structure
- Clip on the lower parts — fit them onto the CD channels
- Slide and align — slide the lower part over the upper part to the required ceiling height; check with a laser or water level
- Lock — drive in the nonius clip so the joint cannot slip
- Trim — cut off the projecting length of the upper part
Points to watch
- Follow the system data — centres and permitted load per suspension point are manufacturer-specific; do not improvise
- Never leave out the clip — without it the joint is not secured and the ceiling can drop
- Check the substrate — concrete needs an anchor approved for overhead use; aerated concrete and hollow blocks need their own fixings
- Hang heavy items separately — a projector, air handling unit or heavy luminaire belongs on its own hanger fixed to the structure, not on the ceiling channel
Related terms
- Suspended ceiling
- Plasterboard
- Metal stud
- Ceiling channel
- Coffered ceiling
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