As the thefts go on I was thinking about methods we use to help prevent thefts of equipment in the university (we have accurate balances that are favourite targets of drug dealers). Although it isn't going to stop them from being stolen these methods can help with the return of items.
We use physical etching of surfaces using a dremel style tip and also invisible UV marking. Etching fairing parts on the inside is a possibility and using an invisible UV pen such as http://www.glowproducts.ca/catalog/i230.html would give you a rapid means of determining whether fairing parts might be stolen. Write a postal code or something using the pen on an external surface and you can check the code using a keychain black light (you can get these from DealXtreme or similar). You can also use the pen to write on engine surfaces but these are going to be cleaned and come into contact with liquids that might remove the invisible ink.
Be careful writing on fairing parts, the ink is solvent based, test it in an inconspicuous area first.
We use physical etching of surfaces using a dremel style tip and also invisible UV marking. Etching fairing parts on the inside is a possibility and using an invisible UV pen such as http://www.glowproducts.ca/catalog/i230.html would give you a rapid means of determining whether fairing parts might be stolen. Write a postal code or something using the pen on an external surface and you can check the code using a keychain black light (you can get these from DealXtreme or similar). You can also use the pen to write on engine surfaces but these are going to be cleaned and come into contact with liquids that might remove the invisible ink.
Be careful writing on fairing parts, the ink is solvent based, test it in an inconspicuous area first.
