AOPA 172 Sweepstakes: Cool and collected

Our Sweepstakes 172’s original windows did not have any heat-damping capability. Thanks to LP Aero Plastics of Jeannette, Pennsylvania, the airplane now has a complete PolyOne SC15 UV/infrared blocking window set—tinted solar gray.

The windows include an acrylic material that is said to decrease cockpit temperatures 10 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit. The material provides protection from ultraviolet rays that can harm you. What’s more, lower cockpit temperatures are better for the electronic equipment installed in any aircraft.

The one-piece windshield also is an improvement on the old Cessna windshield design because it removes the center strap’s visual obstruction.

“The aircraft owners who have had their aircraft upgraded with these UV/infrared blocking windows rave about them when we see them at the shows,” said George Mesiarik, vice president and general manager for LP Aero Plastics.

LP Aero holds more than 1,600 parts manufacturer approvals (PMAs) for windshields and windows, covering about 500 aircraft makes and models, as well as products for the homebuilt, Experimental, and warbird markets. The company also sells window care items, such as wipes, cleaners, and scratch-removal products, along with installation products.

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