Seam strength testing is used for design validation and for lot acceptance.

This test method constitutes the conditions, procedures, and equipment by which inflatable restraints are tested for seam strength and seam efficiency. It is intended to be used as a guideline in establishing a written part specification or print. The specification or agreement of purchaser and supplier may deviate from the procedures described herein when (based on experience) considerations of equipment, cushion design, or other factors dictate otherwise.

In cases of dispute arising from differences in reported test results when using this test method for acceptance testing of commercial shipments, the purchaser and the supplier should perform comparative tests to determine if there is a statistical bias between their laboratories. Competent statistical assistance is recommended for the investigation of bias. As a minimum, the two parties should take a group of test specimens from the same lot of fabric to be evaluated, which utilize a like seam assembly (or standard seam assembly) to achieve seam interaction. The test specimens should then be randomly assigned in equal numbers to each laboratory for testing. If a bias is found, either its cause must be determined and corrected, or the purchaser and supplier must agree to interpret future test results in light of the known bias.

Test Method D 5822 is a reliable test method but procedures which may require special attention are identified in the precision and bias section of this test method.