ABSTRACT
Testing and analysis of composite joints and other elements are essential for maintaining the structural integrity of composite structures and ensuring their reliability. The bearing test measured by this test is the upper bound value that can be achieved in a realistic structural joint. An important consideration in joint testing and analysis is the selection of the type of test method with due attention to the failure mode which is likely to result with a specific joint design in a particular composite system. Net tension/compression and shear-out strengths are a strong function of laminate configuration, joint geometry, and hole size, but only marginally dependent on fastener type, joint configuration, or environment. Tests shall be conducted at room temperature dry conditions, and one hot, wet condition. The hot, wet test shall be conducted on specimens after they are preconditioned to equilibrium level moisture content. Superscripts bry and bru are commonly used to differentiate between yield and ultimate bearing strengths.
