1.1 This practice provides instructions for modifying static bearing test methods to determine the fatigue behavior of composite materials subjected to cyclic bearing forces. The composite material forms are limited to continuous-fiber reinforced polymer matrix composites in which the laminate is both symmetric and balanced with respect to the test direction. The range of acceptable test laminates and thicknesses are described in 8.2.

1.2 This practice supplements Test Method D5961/D5961M with provisions for testing specimens under cyclic loading. Several important test specimen parameters (for example, fastener selection, fastener installation method, and fatigue force/stress ratio) are not mandated by this practice; however, repeatable results require that these parameters be specified and reported.

1.3 This practice is limited to test specimens subjected to constant amplitude uniaxial loading, where the machine is controlled so that the test specimen is subjected to repetitive constant amplitude force (stress) cycles. Either engineering stress or applied force may be used as a constant amplitude fatigue variable. The repetitive loadings may be tensile, compressive, or reversed, depending upon the test specimen and procedure utilized.

1.4 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.