a simple example: shear stress wodld be borne by the rivets when applied.

wind is unnecessary.

Tensile strength is indicated by the maxima of a stress-strain curve and, in general, indicates when necking will occur. As it is an intensive property, its value does not depend on the size of the test specimen. It is, however, dependent on the preparation of the specimen and the temperature of the test environment and material.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tensile_strength

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Note added at 8 mins (2010-01-19 00:38:30 GMT)
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Also known as a "tensile test" or "tension test." See http://www.instron.us/wa/applications/test_types/tension/def...

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Note added at 9 mins (2010-01-19 00:39:10 GMT)
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You can learn a lot about a substance from tensile testing. As you continue to pull on the material until it breaks, you will obtain a good, complete tensile profile. A curve will result showing how it reacted to the forces being applied. The point of failure is of much interest and is typically called its "Ultimate Strength" or UTS on the chart.

http://www.instron.us/wa/applications/test_types/tension/def...

Prueba la resistencia de sólidos a fuerzas tangenciales