How to Perform a CAI Test
A CAI test (Compression After Impact test) is a two step procedure that assesses the potential damage to Composites
The CAI test procedure is described in the dedicated standards ASTM D7136M, ASTM D7136, ISO 18352 and Airbus AITM 1.0010.
A CAI test (Compression After Impact test) is a two step procedure that assesses the potential damage to Composites
The CAI test procedure is described in the dedicated standards ASTM D7136M, ASTM D7136, ISO 18352 and Airbus AITM 1.0010.
The first step involves using a drop weight impact testing machine to induce Barely Visible Impact Damage (BVID) into the panel.
This is followed by a compression test of the damaged coupon, using an electromechanical machine, to measure the residual strength of the composite laminate after being damaged by the impact event.
As the damage resistance of a composite structure is highly dependent upon several factors (i.e. tup geometry, impact mass, impact velocity, etc.)the impact damage sequence must be executed accurately before moving to simulations or compression testing.
The specific setup for the Compression After Impact test involves:
- Support Stands according to the following standards: ASTM D7136M, ASTM D7136M, AIRBUS AITM 1.0010, prEN 6038 and ISO 18352, ASTM D7136 and BOEING BBS 7260
- The Metric versions of the setup have following characteristics:
- Support fixture cut-out window dimensions: 75 x 125 mm
- Specimen dimension: 100 x 150 mm
- Manually activated rubber-tipped clamps
- The Imperial versions of the setup have following characteristics:
- Support fixture cut-out window dimensions: 3 x 5 in
- Specimen dimension: 4 x 6 in
- Manually activated rubber-tipped clamps
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