Repairing Aircraft Windshield
The windshields in an aircraft require a great deal of care and attention. Any kind of damage to the windshield needs to be taken care of at the earliest possible. If the windshield is made up of plastic, then any kind of repairs are fairly easy. But in case, the aircraft is pressurized, any kind of repair needs to be done with the recommendation of the manufacturer.

Amidst various other aircraft windshields, it is acrylic windshields that are the most difficult to repair. In most cases, acrylic aircraft windshields are replaced only in case of any damage. However, if the damage caused is absolutely minor, repair may be considered. The reason why acrylic aircraft windshields are replaced rather than repaired is primarily because of the fact that the parts are easily available. So, this makes replacement fairly easier. Repair of acrylic windshields, on the other hand, requires a great deal of labor. This makes repair more expensive than replacement.

When it comes to repairing aircraft windshields, there are no hard and fast rules. Depending upon the condition of the windshield, an appropriate solution is devised. For instance, if there is a crack that does not hamper the safety, then the crack is repaired via stop drilling. The ends of the crack are stop drilled using a 1/8 inch drill. This prevents the crack from spreading further.

Repairing any cracks in a windshield via a drill is fairly simple. All you need to do is drill a couple of number 40 holes. Remember, that these holes need to be drilled half a inch away from the edge of the crack. No two holes should be closer than half a inch. Once you have made the holes, you need a brass safety wire to lace through these holes. Finish it up by sealing it with clear silicone. However, if you need slightly more permanent repairs, then you could make use of a special purpose diamond cutting machine.

After you have made the repairs, it is recommended that you offer the requisite polishing and finishing. Appropriate polishing and finishing helps you offer the desired finish to your windshield. It helps remove scratches if any and ensures that your windshield looks just as perfect. However, it is strictly recommended that you avoid any kind of sanding as it can affect the surface adversely. But, if you have to us a sanding paper, use a 320- or 400-grit abrasive paper that is wrapped around a felt or rubber pad.

Repairing the aircraft windshield is a task that requires extreme care and caution. So, make sure that you are very careful while at the job.
Related Articles