ASTM D6742 Filled-Hole Tension & Compression Testing for Polymer Composites
Filled-Hole Tension and Compression Testing of Polymer Matrix Composite Laminates is done by ASTM D6742. Different parameters such as fastener selection, material hardness, fastener hole tolerance, torque, and clearance of filled-holes affect the strength properties of the composite material.

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- Overview
- Scope, Applications, and Benefits
- Test Process
- Specifications
- Instrumentation
- Results and Deliverables
Overview
ASTM D6742 provides test methods for determining the tension and compression properties of composite laminates containing a filled hole. The presence of a hole simulates real structural conditions such as bolted or fastened joints.
This test is widely used to evaluate the strength and failure behavior of fiber-reinforced composites in mechanically fastened assemblies. It helps understand how materials perform when stress concentrations are introduced by holes and fasteners.

Scope, Applications, and Benefits
Scope
ASTM D6742 evaluates the mechanical performance of composite materials with a filled hole under tensile and compressive loading. It assesses the effect of stress concentration on strength and durability.
The test evaluates:
- Tensile and compressive strength with filled holes
- Effect of stress concentration
- Failure modes around holes
- Load-bearing capacity of fastened joints
- Structural performance of composites
Applications
- Aerospace structural joints
- Automotive composite assemblies
- Mechanical fastener design
- Bolted and riveted connections
- Composite material research
- Quality control in composite manufacturing
Benefits
- Aerospace structural joints
- Automotive composite assemblies
- Mechanical fastener design
- Bolted and riveted connections
- Composite material research
- Quality control in composite manufacturing
Test Process
Sample Preparation
Composite specimens with a drilled and filled hole are prepared.
1Fixture Setup
Specimen is mounted in tensile or compression fixture.
2Load Application
Load is applied until failure under controlled rate.
3Data Recording & Evaluation
Strength and failure modes are recorded and analyzed.
4Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Applicable Materials | Fiber-reinforced polymer composites |
| Hole Diameter | Typically 6 mm to 12 mm |
| Filling Material | Fastener or pin (metallic/composite) |
| Loading Type | Tension and compression |
| Loading Rate | Approximately 1–2 mm/min |
| Test Temperature | Approximately 23°C ± 2°C |
| Measured Outputs | Strength (MPa), failure mode, load capacity |
Instrumentation Used for Testing
- Universal testing machine
- Tensile and compression fixtures
- Precision drilling tools
- Alignment fixtures
- Strain measurement devices
- Data acquisition system
Results and Deliverables
- Filled-hole tensile strength
- Filled-hole compressive strength
- Failure mode analysis
- Load-displacement behavior
- Test condition summary
- ASTM compliance report
Why Choose Infinita Lab for ASTM D6742?
Infinita Lab is a leading provider of ASTM D6742 and streamlined material testing services, addressing the critical challenges faced by emerging businesses and established enterprises. With access to a vast network of over 2,000+ accredited partner labs across the United States, Infinita Lab ensures rapid, accurate, and cost-effective testing solutions. The company’s unique value proposition includes comprehensive project management, confidentiality assurance, and seamless communication through a Single Point of Contact (SPOC) model. By eliminating inefficiencies in traditional material testing workflows, Infinita Lab accelerates research and development (R&D) processes.
Looking for a trusted partner to achieve your research goals? Schedule a meeting with us, send us a request, or call us at (888) 878-3090 to learn more about our services and how we can support you. Request a Quote
Frequently Asked Questions
ASTM D6742 is a standard test method used to evaluate tensile and compressive properties of composite materials containing a filled hole, simulating bolted joint conditions in structural applications.
ASTM D6742 helps assess joint performance in composites, ensuring strength, durability, and safety in applications like aerospace and automotive structures where fasteners introduce stress concentrations around holes.
ASTM D6742 involves applying controlled tensile or compressive loads to a specimen with a filled hole, measuring strength and deformation to evaluate material behavior under simulated fastening conditions.
ASTM D6742 requires a universal testing machine, specialized fixtures, strain measurement devices, and precisely machined specimens with filled holes to ensure accurate and repeatable testing results.
Results are reported as tensile and compressive strength values, along with failure modes and stress-strain data, providing insights into material performance around fastener regions in composite structures.

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