Compression After Impact with a Drop Weight Impact Testing Machine
A CAI test (compression after impact test) is a two-step procedure that assesses the potential damage to composite materials. 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 machine to induce Barely Visible Impact Damage (BVID). This is followed by a compression test of the damaged coupon using an electromechanical machine.