Solutions for power station markings

The power station marking system (KKS) is a marking system for the uniform and systematic marking of power stations. The Reference Designation System for Power Plants (RDS-PP) is a modern replacement for the proven power station marking system. It provides a number of innovations and additions that accommodate modern requirements for the marking of power station components.

In contrast to KKS, RDS-PP has been developed further with the focus also on new forms of power generation, such as distributed systems, and is used by all specialist units for planning, approval, installation, operation, and maintenance. The marking in accordance with KKS and RDS-PP consists of a 15 to 17-character alphanumeric designation. The letters are usually used to classify the systems and units. The numbers are used for counting.

Bar codes are already frequently used for forward-looking, mobile maintenance in station identification. However, due to the stringent demands of the environment, bar codes have proven a less than ideal solution for labels, especially in a power station. Dirt and aging often lead to high error rates and limited identification.

We support various matrix codes such as QR codes. The matrix code can be used to reliably document relevant information using mobile devices.

When it comes to RFID technology, a distinction is made between active and passive transponders (transmit and response). The fundamental design of an RFID transponder consists of an antenna, a microcontroller, and a permanent memory that can be read and written. In order to ensure optimized maintenance, passive transponders that do not have a separate battery supply tend to be used in power stations. In the case of passive transponders, a distinction is made between high frequency (HF) and ultra high frequency (UHF) transponders. The HF transponder is excited at a frequency of 13.56 MHz, e.g. using a handheld device. It reaches a maximum distance of 1 m. The UHF transponder, which has a frequency of 868 MHz (central Europe), is suitable for larger distances of up to 4 m. Both transponder types are used in power station applications:

• Since for electrical equipment, clear identification is the primary aim, greater distances and the associated bulk detection are not possible here. In the case of bulk detection, all RFID transponders within range of the handheld device are detected.
• In the case of mechanical structures and large units, it is more practical to use UHF transponders due to the inaccessibility of some areas. Bulk detection of multiple RFID transponders is certainly a possibility here.

As per DIN 2403 guideline requirements, pipelines must be identified according to the medium conveyed using different colors. In addition to pipeline tapes, which do not identify buried pipes at possible danger points, the pipes associated with a unit are usually marked in accordance with the KKS marking system. The colors can be individually assigned by the modular identification system. A carrier is used which can hold a label size of 90 x 38 mm. The label is held in the carrier by the two medium colors that are attached externally and secured by two pop rivets. This allows the label to be swapped quickly if the encryption is changed, without having to remove the carrier.

The BLUEMARK ID high-speed printers are at the heart of this marking system. Markings created using the special UV LED printing process meet all requirements associated with a power station environment.

They are resistant to high thermal, chemical and mechanical loads. Thanks to the wide range of marking materials and system accessories, practically all the different marking tasks associated with power station identification are covered.