Schubtests

Schubtests is a term used in German-speaking technical literature to describe tests that evaluate shear or thrust resistance of materials, joints, and assemblies. Because works involving shear occur across many disciplines, Schubtests cover a family of procedures rather than a single standard method. The exact test type and interpretation depend on the application, whether it is geotechnical, materials testing, or structural engineering.

Geotechnical Schubtests include the direct shear test and the triaxial shear test. These tests aim to determine shear strength parameters of soils, such as cohesion and the internal friction angle, under specified normal stresses. The results inform stability analyses for slopes, retaining structures, and foundations.

In materials testing, Schubtests assess the ability of a material or a bonded joint to resist shear loads. Common configurations include direct shear tests on coupons, and lap-shear tests for adhesively bonded assemblies. The tests reveal shear strength, failure mode, and the influence of factors such as surface preparation, temperature, and load rate.

Typical practice involves preparing specimens with defined geometry, applying a controlled shear load while maintaining a set normal load, and recording shear stress versus shear displacement. The ultimate shear strength and the observed failure mechanism are used for design, safety assessment, and quality control.

Schubtests are described in various international standards—found in ISO, ASTM, and DIN families—whose exact requirements differ by discipline, specimen geometry, and loading protocol. Practitioners select the standard appropriate to the material, joint, and intended application.