1.1 This test method determines the uniaxial bearing/bypass interaction response of multi-directional polymer matrix composite laminates reinforced by high-modulus fibers by either double-shear tensile loading (Procedure A) or single-shear tensile or compressive loading (Procedure B) of a two-fastener specimen. The scope of this test method is limited to net section (bypass) failure modes. Standard specimen configurations using fixed values of test parameters are described for each procedure. A number of test parameters may be varied within the scope of the standard, provided that the parameters are fully documented in the test report. The composite material forms are limited to continuous-fiber or discontinuous-fiber (tape or fabric, or both) reinforced composites for which the laminate is balanced and symmetric with respect to the test direction. The range of acceptable test laminates and thicknesses are described in 8.2.1. Test methods for high bypass - low bearing response of polymer matrix composite materials, previously published under Procedure C of this test method, are now published in Test Method D8387/D8387M.

1.2 This test method is consistent with the recommendations of Composite Materials Handbook, CMH-17, which describes the desirable attributes of a bearing/bypass interaction response test method.

1.3 The two-fastener test configurations described in this test method are similar to those in Test Method D5961/D5961M as well as those used by industry to investigate the bearing portion of the bearing/bypass interaction response for bolted joints, where the specimen may produce either a bearing failure mode or a bypass failure mode. Should the test specimen fail in a bearing failure mode rather than the desired bypass mode, then the test should be considered to be a bearing dominated bearing/bypass test, and the data reduction and reporting procedures of Test Method D5961/D5961M should be used instead of those given in this test method.

1.4 Units—The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system are not necessarily exact equivalents; therefore, to ensure conformance with the standard, each system shall be used independently of the other, and values from the two systems shall not be combined.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.