[Public-list] thickness of large portlights

[edward schroeder]

"Lexan" is GE's proprietary name for generic polycarbonate. Plexiglass is an acrylic. Acrylics are initially soft and pliable due to the plasticizers that they are made with; the UV will eventually degrade the plasticizers and therefore the acrylic (Plexiglass) and make them brittle. Polycarbonate (Lexan) is originally pliable and will retain this pliability for many years; it is much more UV resistant. Polycarbonate will also expand and contract much more than acrylic. Allow at least 1/16 inch on each side of the portlights for this expansion; if you should need to put screws through polycarbonate, drill oversize holes for the fasteners to go through and not place pressure points at the fastener. I suggest going on GE's website or "Lexan's" website for more info, including sealants for fiberglass cabin sides, Lexan glazing and aluminum frames. Good luck, Ed. Schroeder ,Architect and #303 "Emotional Rescue" in Chicago.

J Bergquist <jbergqui at gmail.com> wrote:  What is the thickness for the large portlights in the cabin? I
replaced the port side ones already with 3/16" Acrylite FF (which I
think is Lexan). I am going to do the STBD ones now, but I need to
know what thickness to get. When I did the port ones, I remember
thinking that 3/16" was too thin, but it was what I had.

I was thinking 1/4" or maybe 5/16". Help appreciated.

Also, what kind of material is the best thing to use? Polycarbonate?
Lexan? Are those the same thing? Plexiglass? I have found several
different kinds of clear acrylic at www.mcmaster.com. Would appreciate
any insight into what, exactly, is the best thing to use.

Finally, what kind of caulk is the best? I have heard that butyl
rubber is the thing to use with Lexan because polysulfide will react
with it in some unfavorable way...

Thoughts welcome!

J Bergquist
_______________________________________________
These businesses support your Association:
http://www.alberg30.org/store/A30supporters.html
Please support them.
_______________________________________________
public-list mailing list
public-list at lists.alberg30.org
http://lists.alberg30.org/listinfo.cgi/public-list-alberg30.org


 1178044865.0