Attaching plexiglas windshield to composite fuselage

[Mgundwane]

Dear ladies and gentlemen

Could somebody out there give me some details on how to actually fix (bond and clamp or just bond) a 5mm thick plexiglass windshield (simmilar shape and size as the EC135 windshields) to a composite fuselage structure of a two bladed helicopter.

1. What needs to be considered in terms of possible fuselage oscilations and the effect on the bonding/sealer?
2. Would a mechanical clamping in addition to a 5mm thick flexible sealer/bonding layer be of any advantage?

How do the professional manufacturers do it?

Thank you in advance.

Thys Pieterse

 

[gyromaxwell]

The method that I have seen used many times is as follows:
a rubber grommet of a given dia. is used in a hole that is larger then the fastening screw. the grommet thickness is greater then the windshield thickness and/or over-laps the windshield. the screw is then passed thru the windshield hole and thru the composite hole. a nylock nut is then placed on the screw. using flathead screws keeps the outer surface smooth.

Hope this helps!

Tim Blackwell
Gyro-designer

 

[aviat]

You can try this site and then contact them for more info it necessary.

http://members.eaa.org/home/homebuilders/authors/bingelis/Windshield Trim Work.html