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 (Procedures A and C) 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 .

1.2 This test method is consistent with the recommendations of MIL-HDBK-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 D 5961/D 5961M 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 D 5961/D 5961M should be used instead of those given in this standard.

1.4 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. Within the text the inch-pound units are shown in brackets. The values stated in each system are not exact equivalents; therefore, each system must be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in nonconformance with the standard.

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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.