Wiring identification protocol

[airtight]

Hi, Can anyone advise me on where I can find information on standards for wiring identification protocol.

We are using a system at present which is quite complicated and I would like to see how common it really is.

The system comprises of a four digit component number and a couple of other digits that would direct you to the drawing sheet and area of drawing.

Is anyone aware of this method ? If so I would be very happy if someone could provide me with some more information on it and where it came from.

Thanks

Neville
Scotland

 

[VEBill]

In my world (military avionics), each wire is identified (on the drawing) with a unique System and Sequence ID. As a made-up example, "VHF1-123C17WH". The ID contains some clues such as the system (VHF radio #1), the grouping of wires to carry a particular signal, and the wire colour (WHite). In the physical world, the individual wires are sometimes (often?) marked. The cable ends are always clearly identified.

There's no attempt to link the identification number to a particular drawing sheet and area, because, frankly, that sounds like a horrible concept. After the system is built and the wires marked, what if the drawing changes in a way that forces drawing sheets and areas to change? What if a particular wire spans all the sheets? Sounds almost unworkable...

I can't help you with whatever might be the standards in use for the Marine/Ocean sector. But there should be a standard somewhere.

 

[ScottyUK]

You might want to check the German KKS system - it's a very good system used to identify individual components, sub-assemblies, and right up to a complete plant, by component type and by functional location. It is intimately tied into the drawing system. It's good for big projects, like a power plant or transmission substation. It is also incredibly confusing when you first encounter it.

KKS isn't quite what you've described but it certainly has some similar features.


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If we learn from our mistakes I'm getting a great education!

 

[LSpark]

I've never come across a system that cross references to location on drawings, sounds very complicated.

All the old UK power stations were wired (for small wiring) to BEB S12 which I find very easy to follow. I still insist that any mods/additions to the older stations comply with BEBS S12 and have been known to suggest it if asked what numbering system I want for new installations.

The KKS system Scotty mentioned is also quite good (once you get your head round it) and covers everything not just the wiring nomenclature.

 

[ScottyUK]

Oh, you are really out of date! BEBS 12 was re-issued by the ENA as TS 50-19. Which is basically BEBS 12 with a new cover.


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If we learn from our mistakes I'm getting a great education!

 

[LSpark]

That's good news, I'll ask out tech library to order me a copy so I don't look so old fashioned!