Build reliable modular ceilings with USG ME grid and suspension solutions designed to support different ceiling layouts, load requirements and architectural finishes. The range includes DONN ceiling suspension systems in T24, T15, Fineline, steel and aluminium configurations, alongside components for lay-in and clip-in ceiling applications.
From accessible modular ceilings to concealed metal ceiling installations, USG ME provides suspension options for commercial, healthcare, education, office, transportation and other project environments. Architects, consultants and contractors can select systems according to ceiling panel type, grid profile, required performance, service access and project-specific installation needs.
A ceiling suspension system creates the supporting framework that holds ceiling panels in position beneath the structural soffit. Its design affects panel alignment, load support, accessibility, installation efficiency and the finished appearance of the ceiling.
USG ME's range includes exposed and visually reduced grid profiles as well as solutions developed for different performance requirements. DONN® systems are available in T24 and T15 profiles, Fineline configurations and steel or aluminium options, giving project teams greater flexibility when coordinating architectural intent with technical requirements.
The correct suspension system should always be selected together with the ceiling panel rather than as an independent component. Panel edge detail, ceiling module, load requirements, environmental conditions and access requirements all influence which grid configuration is appropriate.
A ceiling grid system usually consists of main runners, cross tees, perimeter components and suspension accessories arranged to create a stable modular framework. In a lay-in ceiling, panels rest directly on this supporting grid, allowing individual tiles to be removed when access above the ceiling is needed.
USG ME offers several DONN® configurations to address different design and performance needs:
Suspension solution | Key design consideration |
DONN® DXF® FINELINE® | Narrow-profile grid for a visually reduced suspension appearance |
DONN® DXI® IDENTITEE® | Designed around modular flexibility and integration with narrow lighting |
DONN® DX®/DXL® T24 | Wider T24 grid format with fire-rated system options |
DONN® DX®/DXL® T15 Centricitee | Narrow T15 profile with a self-centring panel-support design |
DONN® DXH® 38 T24 | T24 suspension solution for higher-duty requirements |
DONN® AX™/AXCE™ | Aluminium suspension option, including applications requiring corrosion resistance |
DONN® CE® | Exposed grid solution developed for clean-room applications |
DONN® DX®/DXH® 33 T24 | Intermediate-duty T24 ceiling suspension system |
Product performance and suitability vary by system, so specifications should be confirmed against the relevant technical datasheet before final selection.
A T-grid suspension system uses intersecting main runners and cross tees to form modules that support ceiling tiles. T15 and T24 describe different exposed grid face widths, giving architects a choice between narrower and wider visual profiles.
Lay-in systems are particularly useful where regular access to lighting, HVAC, electrical services or other elements within the ceiling void may be required. Because the panels sit on the support structure rather than being permanently fixed, individual tiles can typically be lifted or removed when the system design permits.
USG ME's DONN® range also includes Quick-Release™ and locking features on selected systems. For example, the DX®/DXH® 33 T24 system uses Quick-Release clips that allow cross tees to be demounted and reinstalled, while the DXF® FINELINE® system combines ceiling accessibility with a narrow visual profile.
Lay-in acoustical ceiling systems place modular ceiling panels directly onto the suspension grid. The approach provides straightforward installation and makes the ceiling void accessible for maintenance or changes to building services.
USG ME's lay-in range includes DONN® and Quadra® suspension systems with T24, T15 and Fineline configurations. The category includes products for different project conditions, including fire-resistant, seismic, wet-area, healthcare, commercial and general interior applications.
Panel edge configuration is also important. USG ME identifies square, tapered and concealed ceiling-edge options as compatible with selected DONN® and Quadra® systems, allowing the visible relationship between panel and grid to be considered during specification.
Unlike a lay-in tile that rests on an exposed grid, clip-in acoustical ceiling systems secure metal panels to concealed suspension components. USG ME's Clip-In range uses Spring T channels that connect to the primary support structure and clamp the panel edges at defined intervals.
This arrangement creates a more concealed ceiling appearance while maintaining a structured suspension framework above the panels. USG ME also provides adjustable rod hangers and butterfly clips that support suspended grid and ceiling assemblies from the overhead structure.
Clip-in systems can therefore be considered when the project requires the visual characteristics of metal ceiling systems together with controlled ceiling-void access and a concealed supporting structure.
Material choice should reflect the required loading, environmental conditions and system specification rather than appearance alone.
Steel grids are commonly selected where structural strength and load-bearing capacity are important. Aluminium systems can provide an alternative where corrosion resistance is a significant project consideration. USG ME's DONN® AX™/AXCE™ system, for example, is an aluminium suspension solution listed for wet-area and healthcare applications.
Before specifying either material, project teams should review the complete ceiling assembly, including panel type, suspension spacing, perimeter details, supported services and applicable performance requirements.
A suspension system depends on more than main runners and cross tees. Appropriate ceiling grid and framing accessories help connect, suspend, align and complete the ceiling framework.
USG ME's grid and suspension range includes rod hangers, adjustable butterfly clips and Spring T components for clip-in metal ceilings. Individual DONN® systems can also include main runners, short and long cross tees, wall angles and perimeter trims depending on the selected configuration.
Selecting compatible components from the same tested or specified system helps project teams maintain the intended ceiling layout and installation method. The relevant technical documentation should be reviewed before substituting grid sections, hangers or accessories.
Start with the ceiling panel and required finish, then evaluate the conditions that affect the support system.
Consider:
Panel type and edge detail: Confirm whether the ceiling uses lay-in, concealed, clip-in or another edge configuration.
Grid profile: Select T24, T15, Fineline or another specified format according to the required appearance and system.
Load requirements: Account for ceiling panels and any permitted supported components.
Service access: Consider how frequently the ceiling void may need to be accessed.
Project environment: Identify requirements related to healthcare, wet areas, clean rooms, seismic design or fire performance.
Material selection: Determine whether steel or aluminium better suits the specified application.
Suspension components: Confirm hangers, runners, cross tees, perimeter sections and connectors as part of the complete system.
Technical documentation: Review current product datasheets, installation information and specification requirements before approval.
USG ME provides suspension solutions for both lay-in and clip-in ceiling construction, allowing designers and contractors to coordinate supporting systems with different modular and metal ceiling formats. The DONN® range includes multiple grid widths, duty classifications, materials and application-specific configurations.
Technical datasheets, installation information, system catalogues and specification resources are also available through USG ME to support product comparison, submittals and project specification.
A ceiling suspension system is the supporting framework installed below the structural ceiling to hold ceiling panels or tiles. Depending on the design, it can include main runners, cross tees, hangers, perimeter sections, and connecting accessories.
T15 and T24 refer to different grid face widths. T15 provides a narrower visible profile, while T24 creates a wider grid appearance. The correct option depends on panel compatibility, required performance, and the architectural design.
In a lay-in system, ceiling tiles rest on the grid structure and can generally be lifted for access. In a clip-in system, panels connect to concealed suspension components, creating a more concealed finished appearance.
Yes. USG ME offers systems using steel, galvanized steel, and aluminium. Material selection depends on factors such as loading, environmental exposure, and project-specific performance requirements.
USG ME offers fire-rated suspension options, including DONN® DX®/DXL® T24 and DONN® DX®/DXL® T15 Centricitee systems. The complete ceiling assembly and required fire classification should be verified through the applicable technical documentation before specification.
Lay-in ceiling systems are designed to provide accessible modular ceiling construction because individual panels rest on the supporting grid. Access conditions for other systems depend on the panel and suspension configuration.
Components vary by system but may include main runners, cross tees, wall angles, perimeter trims, hangers, and connecting accessories. Clip-in ceilings can also use Spring T channels and adjustable hanging components.
Match the grid to the ceiling panel, edge profile, load requirements, environmental conditions, service-access needs, and required fire, seismic, or application-specific performance. Final selection should follow the relevant USG ME system datasheet and project specification.
