How is seam strength typically evaluated after a repair?

• A. Weighing the seam.
• B. Through visual inspection of stitches and a load test or functional check to confirm the seam holds under expected loads.
• C. Measuring the fabric's stretch.
• D. Testing with a flame test.

Answer: (B)

Seam strength after a repair is determined by pairing a careful visual assessment of the stitches with a controlled load test that mimics the forces the seam will face in use. The visual check catches issues like skipped stitches, loose threads, uneven tension, or fabric damage along the seam, but it may miss a latent weakness. The load or functional test confirms that the repaired seam actually holds up under the expected loads, ensuring reliability during deployment and operation. Weighing the seam isn’t a measure of how much load it can withstand, measuring fabric stretch assesses material elasticity rather than seam integrity, and a flame test is inappropriate and destructive for evaluating seam strength.