Power transmission products are directly linked with safety, durability, and performance. A slight quality problem in the conductors can lead to significant failures in transmission lines. This is where the Government of India has given BIS certification for aluminium stranded conductors significance, and many other electrical products that are used in overhead transmission.
The BIS Certification process is still a bit confusing for many manufacturers, however, due to various technical requirements, product testing, factory inspection, and documentation. Issues such as which IS standard will apply, what tests are necessary, how much will it take to be approved, what documents will be needed are very common. It is essential to manufacturers to be aware of the entire BIS certification process in case a seamless production process is required without delays, product rejection, or compliance issues.
In this blog we will tell you about the complete process of BIS Certification for Aluminium Stranded Conductors IS 398 (Part 4):1994 in a simple and easy to understand manner.
Benefits of Obtaining ISI Mark for Aluminium Stranded Conductors
There are numerous advantages to business and compliance with BIS certification.
- Legal Market Access: BIS Certification helps in the legal manufacturing, selling and distributing conductors in India.
- Develops Product Trust: The ISI mark provides confidence for the buyer, contractor and government agencies.
- Better Market Opportunities: Most Government tenders and big projects call for BIS certified products.
- Guarantees Product Quality: The certification ensures the Quality and Safety of the product which adheres to the Indian Standards.
- Minimizes Product Rejections: Fewer quality issues and complaints on certified products.
- Enhances the Brand Value: The ISI mark will provide a professional and reliable brand image in the market.
- Helps in Competitive Advantage: BIS certified manufacturers are preferred over those who are not certified.
Process of BIS ISI Certification for Aluminium Stranded Conductors
There are several technical and compliance steps in the process of BIS certification of Aluminium Stranded Conductors.
Step 1. Standard Identification
The first and foremost step is to identify the right Indian Standard of the product. Aluminium Stranded Conductors, for use in overhead transmission purposes shall conform to IS 398 (Part 4):1994.
This standard is for Aluminium-Magnesium-Silicon type stranded conductors.
2. Sample Testing Support
Product samples are tested in the BIS recognized & NABL accredited laboratories. Testing is done as per IS 398 (Part 4) requirements.
Main tests include:
- Diameter test
- Breaking load test
- Elongation test
- Resistance test
- Lay ratio test
- Visual examination
- Exploring wires to check for joint issues
The product needs to comply with all technical requirements.
Step 3: Document Preparation
All necessary documents should be brought by the manufacturers before they apply for certification.
Important documents include:
- Factory details
- Product specifications
- Test reports
- Quality control details
- Manufacturing information
Any documents that are not correct or complete will take longer to be approved.
Step 4: Mandatory Factory Audit Guidance
Inspection of the factory takes place by the BIS officials under Scheme-I. When conducting an audit, BIS will look for the following:
- Manufacturing process
- Production capacity
- In-house testing facilities
- Quality control system
- Calibration records
- Test equipment availability
It is essential that the factory has appropriate testing and inspection equipment.
Step 5: Application Filing
Once tested & documented, BIS application is submitted online via the BIS website portal.
The application includes:
- Laboratory test reports
- Technical documents
- Factory information
- Quality records
The application and documents are reviewed by the officials of BIS.
Step 6: BIS License & Approval Monitoring
BIS will have technical issues and require clarification during the approval process.
In addition, BIS checks if the necessary test equipment is available, including:
- Micrometer
- Tensile testing machine
- Vernier calipers
- Micro-ohm meter
- Thermometer
- Steel scale
These are used to check the product conforms to Indian Standards.
Step 7: Grant of BIS Licence
The licence is issued when the product and factory fulfill all the requirements of BIS. The manufacturer is then able to use the ISI mark on approved products.
Step 8: Renewal & Maintenance
Manufacturers have to meet product quality requirements post certification.
The importance of Regular testing, record maintenance, compliance is some points for licence renewal and continued BIS Approval.
Products Cover Under BIS ISI Certification
The ISI certification for IS 398 standards are for conductors used for overhead power transmission purposes.
Typical products that are covered are:
- Aluminium Stranded Conductors
- Aluminium Alloy Stranded Conductors
- Aluminium-Magnesium-Silicon Conductors
- AAC Conductors
- Overhead Transmission Conductors
Conductors up to and including size of 767 mm² (Actual Aluminium Area) are allowed according to IS 398 (Part 4).
The scope of the licence could be different based on the following:
- Manufacturing capability
- Testing facilities
- Product size range
Documents Required for BIS Certification Process for Aluminium Stranded Conductors
There are several technical and business documents which are required by a manufacturer in the BIS certification for aluminium stranded conductors procedure.
Typical documents that are needed are:
- Simple data on the manufacturing unit and category of the product.
- Proof of Manufacturing Unit Address (Ownership / Lease Deed, Utility Bill etc.)
- In case the trademark is used with the brand name, there is a need to have a certificate of trademark registration (required only if the trademark is used with the registered brand name)
- Pollution controls and other necessary manufacturing licences / statutory approvals (if any) (e.g. industry specific approvals)
- Product drawings/design schematics
- Installed manufacturing capacity
- List & specification of raw materials used
- Information about machines and equipment used in making products.Information about the manufacture of machines and equipment
- The layout of the factory (production area, testing area, storage area)
- Explain the manufacturing process flow in detail
- This is a list of in house test equipment and calibration details
- Information or data on quality control staff
- Factory organizational chart
Documentation is key to avoid delays and objections from BIS.
Cost and Timeline of BIS ISI Certification for Indian Manufacturers
| Particulars | Estimated Cost (INR) |
| Application Fees (BIS) | ₹1,000 |
| Testing Charges (Lab Fees) | 15000- ₹2,50,000 |
| Factory Inspection Charges | ₹7000 |
| Annual License Fees | ₹1,000 |
| Marking Fees (ISI Mark Usage) | As per BIS norms (based on production) |
| Consultancy Charges (UMSPCS) | ₹ 50000 |
This overall timeframe could adjust based on documentation and documentation readiness.
Typically, it can take 30 to 40 working days; however, delays can be mitigated by a quick response and good documentation. Read more also: CRS Consultant in Mumbai
Why Choose UMSPCS?
Conductors need technical knowledge and expertise about compliance to obtain BIS certification. UMSPCS assists manufacturers in the process of completing the process smoothly, and correctly.
- We’re experienced in handling the entire certification procedure
- We are familiar with the IS 398 requirement and how to be compliant with it
- Assist in creating accurate technical/compliance documents
- Communicate with BIS recognized laboratories for smooth product testing
- We provide the manufacturer with information and guidance on how to prepare for BIS audits and inspections
- We have a systematic procedure that minimises delays and eliminates errors
- We give appropriate guidance throughout the certification process
- Support the manufacturers in different BIS and ISI Categories
Read more also: Mumbai’s No. 1 Trusted BIS CRS Certification Consultants
Conclusion
Legal compliance, product quality, and market trust are all vital reasons for BIS certification for Aluminium Stranded Conductors. The manufacturers of conductor material for an overhead transmission project should ensure that the product meets IS 398 (Part 4):1994 standards and the BIS requirements.
It consists of testing, documentation, factory inspection and technical verification. The approval process can be long and complex if it’s not guided appropriately.
UMSPCS provides professional end-to-end support to manufacturers to ease the entire BIS certification process.
If you are planning to obtain BIS Certification for Aluminium Stranded Conductors, connect with UMSPCS today for reliable certification assistance and faster compliance support.
FAQs- BIS Certification Approval for Aluminium Stranded Conductors
- Is it necessary to get Aluminium Stranded Conductors Certified?
Yes, all conductors with reference to Indian Standards have to be approved by BIS for marketing in India.
- Aluminium Alloy Stranded Conductors are covered by which Indian Standard?
The Aluminium Magnesium Silicon type stranded conductors (OHT) can be used with IS 398 (Part 4):1994.
- How much time does BIS certification take?
The certification takes approximately 30-90 working days, depending on the test, documentation and BIS inspection.
- What test(s) should be required for BIS certification?
Some major tests are breaking load test, resistance test, elongation test, diameter test, lay ratio test and visual inspection.
- Are foreign manufacturers eligible for BIS Certification?
Yes, BIS foreign manufacturer certification can also be applied by foreign manufacturers.
- If the product does not meet the requirements of the BIS tests, what is planned for the product?
If a product fails a test, then the manufacturer must rectify the issue and retest the product.
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