Shear Testing

In materials science, shear refers to a sliding failure that occurs along a flat plane of a sample. During shear testing, force is applied to a material in a parallel direction, rather than holding it in tension. Element can perform a variety of shear testing methods and techniques, and we are committed to providing you with the most accurate results possible.

What materials are shear tested? 

Shear testing is particularly important for materials that might experience a multi-directional force, such as fasteners, adhesives, or even shear testing of composites.

How is a shear test performed? 

Shear testing is performed by applying a load to the material until the materials shears, or slides, apart. The point at which a sample fails is defined as its shear strength.

What is a shear strength testing? 

Shear strength testing is often used as a way to compare different materials to determine fitness for an application, or to ensure that all the materials being used in a system are uniform.

Shear test methods 

Element offers multiple shear testing methods for different materials types and applications, including: 

• Adhesive shear testing - single lap shear testing: this method tests one adhesive layer between two bonded pieces. The two parts are pulled in different directions until the adhesive fails. While the bonded pieces are usually metals, they can also be plastics or composites.Double Lap Shear Testing: Very similar to single lap shear, a double lap shear tests involves two layers of adhesive material. The top and bottom of a single sample piece are coated with the adhesive, and bonded pieces are affixed on both sides of the sample. The two bonded pieces are then pulled in opposite directions until the adhesive layers both fail. 
• Composite shear testing - in-plane shear testing: typically used for layered composite materials, in-plane shear testing measures the response of material in the plane of lamination. It may be performed by pulling a specimen in tension using a +/- 45 degree layup. In addition to the shear strength of the material, this method provides data on shear strain and elasticity.Short Beam Shear Testing: This method bends a material using a short beam to provide an approximation of interlaminar shear strength.V-Notch Shear Testing: This method uses a “v” notched specimen that allows for testing shear strength and modulus at all possible directions.

The Element advantage 

Element can perform shear testing at both elevated and reduced temperatures and can accommodate a variety of sizes. We have experience testing a range of material types and are always open to assisting with large, complex or unique projects.

For more information about our shear testing services, or to request a quote, contact us today.