Re: PT-26 canopy glass thickness

[shergei2001]

'
I am getting ready to order sliding canopy glass for my PT-26 and have a question about thickness.   The drawing specifies 0.10 inch, but LP Aero Plastics says they usually make these in 0.125 inch, but they can do 0.10 inch.  There would be a nice weight savings by using the thinner material.  Is there any reason NOT to use the thinner material?
 
Great Lakes Aero Plastics also makes PT-26 glass, but they are more expensive.  Any comments on either vendor?
 
Any thoughts would be appreciated!
 
Thanks,
Pete Crawford 
 
 '

[cagog]

'   I thought about this very same question for some time on my -26 canopies. I decided to go the .125 way. Plexi can vary in thickness by up to 10%. I prefer a tad thick to thin, and the extra .025 is no factor in fitting to frame. Just my opinion. I am a huge fan of considering weight, I dont think weight to be a large enough factor in this situation. The 1/8 Plexi sheet I bought was closer to .115 anyway.    My center fixed canopy was ready for glass about 18 months ago. I purchased the glass for it from L.P. Aero. who  I had previously purchased several pieces from for other airplanes. Cant say enough how much I like working with them. They are fast and economical even for pieces they had never done before. Didn't gouge us on tooling fees.    Recently I got back to working on the sliders. They needed quite a bit of work, new fairing and some corner supports. Since the sides are made from flat stock I cut those to shape myself for the sliders.    I have access to a convection oven large enough, so I made a mold for the tops and formed them. Mostly for the experience of doing it. Was easier than I though and the optics are great.  For me the canopies have been a challenge. I have about 4 airplanes worth in my collection of stuff.  Problem is if they are not corroded someone has gone at it with a drill to add fairings,locks ect. Currently I am waiting for some material to machine new pressed in bushings for the bearing blocks.'